Overview of the Modernization Initiative
Pakistan is launching a comprehensive upgrade to its early flood warning and weather forecasting network under the Modernization of Hydromet Services of Pakistan (MHSP) project. Funded by World Bank-supported IFRAP (Integrated Flood Resilience Adaptation Project), the initiative aims to bolster climate resilience by improving the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s (PMD) ability to generate, interpret, and disseminate reliable hydrometeorological information. This modernization is designed to provide timely, accurate forecasts that support agriculture, water resource management, and disaster risk reduction across the country.
Key Components of MHSP
The project outlines a multi-faceted upgrade of Pakistan’s hydromet infrastructure and capabilities. Major elements include:
- Installation of 110 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS)
- Deployment of four Fixed Weather Surveillance Radars
- Implementation of a High-Performance Computing System to enhance data processing
- Engagement of System Integrator and Radar Consultancy firms
- Upgrades to the Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics and the Meteorological Workshop in Karachi
- Modernization of observatories and establishment of Regional Climate Data Processing Centres
- Formulation of a National Framework for Climate Services and a National Hydromet Policy
These components collectively aim to strengthen forecasting accuracy, shorten lead times for warnings, and improve the dissemination of critical information to farmers, policymakers, and civil authorities.
Financial Structure and Progress
MHSP is led by Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives. The project’s funding for FY2025–26 totals PKR 2,998.6 million, with PKR 206 million required in the current quarter and PKR 32.78 million spent so far this fiscal year. Total project expenditure since inception stands at PKR 312.78 million.
As of September 2025, several procurement and engineering milestones have advanced. The AWS procurement process is finalized, with contract signing anticipated soon. Financial proposals for the System Integrator Consultancy have been opened, and the Radar Consultancy is undergoing technical evaluation. Weather Surveillance Radars are nearing finalization, awaiting World Bank approval on technical specifications. Civil works consultancy has been engaged since March 2025, and bids for upgrading the IMG and the Meteorological Workshop are under technical review.
Expected Impact on Climate Resilience
Once operational, MHSP will significantly improve flood forecasting and early warning systems. Enhanced data processing and regional climate centres will enable more accurate predictions of rainfall, river flows, and extreme weather events. This, in turn, supports more effective disaster risk management, reduces economic losses, and helps safeguard vulnerable communities. Improved weather information will also benefit agricultural planning and water resource management, contributing to national food security and resilience against climate variability.
Challenges and Outlook
The program faces typical challenges associated with heavy modernization efforts, including complex procurement timelines, technical integration across multiple agencies, and ensuring sustainable funding. The project’s emphasis on a National Hydromet Policy and a national framework for climate services signals a broader strategy to institutionalize climate data access and risk management. Officials note that once MHSP is fully implemented, it will mark a milestone in Pakistan’s disaster preparedness and climate resilience, delivering timely, precise weather forecasts when they matter most.
