PDMA operates to ensure timely and effective response to disasters. In this regard, its core functions are as following:
- Formulate the provincial disaster management policy obtaining the approval of the provincial commission
- Coordinate and monitor the implementation of the national policy, national plan and provincial plan
- Examine the vulnerability of different parts of the province to different disasters and specify prevention of mitigation measures
- Lay down guidelines to be followed for preparation of disaster management plans by the provincial department and district authorities
- Evaluate preparedness at all governmental or non-governmental levels to respond to disasters and enhance preparedness
- Coordinate response in the aftermath of a disaster
- Give directions to any provincial department or authority regarding actions to be taken in response to a disaster
- Promote general education, awareness and community training relating to the actions to be taken in response to a disaster
- Provide indispensable technical assistance or give advice to the District Authority and Local Authorities for conveying out their functions effectively
- Advice the provincial government regarding all financial matters in relation to disaster management
- Examine the construction in the area and if it is in the opinion that the standards laid down have not been followed it may direct the same to secure compliance of such standards
- Ensure that communication systems are in order and disaster management drills are being carried out regularly, and perform such other functions as may be assigned to it by the national or provincial authority