KARACHI, Oct 19: Speakers at a seminar on “Natural disasters and precautions” on Tuesday stressed need for drawing a new seismic zone map of Pakistan. The seminar was held under the auspices of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology at its premises.

They further stressed that awareness must be spread among the masses regarding precaution measures to check losses in case of an earthquake. It is incumbent upon the experts to disseminate necessary information among the masses.

The vice-chancellor of Urdu university, Dr Iqbal Mohsin, suggested that the Higher Education Commission should sponsor scholarships for the education in the discipline of seismology. He also suggested that teachers should be provided with opportunities to attend seminars abroad.

Former federal minister Islam Nabi suggested that a seismological institute be established at the Urdu university and attention be paid towards research in this very discipline. He also stressed that the discipline of engineering geology be taught at this institution.

Shahab Qidwai of Nespak was of the view that technical information be disseminated among the students and people in a simple language and style.—APP