Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Act, 2017 (Act No. II of 2017).

The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Act, 2017 establishes a comprehensive framework for disaster management in Gilgit-Baltistan. It provides for the establishment of a Disaster Management Commission and an Authority to develop policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and reconstruction. The Act sets out the roles and functions of various bodies including District and Local Authorities, mandates annual disaster management plans at district and provincial levels, and empowers these bodies to coordinate disaster response, enforce necessary measures, and facilitate community awareness and training. The Act also includes provisions for establishing a specialized Disaster Response Force and an Institute for Disaster Management to promote training, research, and capacity building.
The Act aims to ensure effective disaster management by coordinating efforts among government departments, non-governmental organizations, and local authorities. It authorizes emergency procurement, outlines penalties for obstructing disaster management activities or providing false claims or warnings, and prohibits discrimination in disaster relief. The law further protects officials acting in good faith from legal suits and includes provisions for resource requisition and coordination with national and international agencies. Overall, it serves to address Gilgit-Baltistan's unique geographic and social needs by establishing a legal and institutional basis for disaster management, improving preparedness, and safeguarding affected communities. The Act consists of 41 Articles divided into IX Chapters.