Loss of billions of dollars

As many as 1061 people died due to floods across the country, among which 349 people lost their lives in Sindh, 242 in Balochistan, 168 in Punjab and 42 in Azad Kashmir. There is a fear of an increase in the death toll.

Pakistan is already heavily indebted and has to borrow more to repay its debt installments. In such a situation, the disasters caused by floods have broken the back of the country’s economy.

About 17 years ago, when the 2005 earthquake struck, the problem of the lack of earthquake-proof buildings across the country came to the fore. Surprisingly, no earthquake prevention measures were taken across the country.

However, no government of Pakistan has learned anything from the heavy loss of life and property caused by the earthquake. Despite being warned 2 months ago about the threat of floods due to climate change, no measures were taken.

Undoubtedly, Turkey, Arab Emirates and other Muslim countries are coming forward to help Pakistan and Western countries are also coming forward to help the flood victims, but the damage caused to Pakistan is far greater than all the aid.

In his recent statement, Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Qudous Bizenjo said that the recent rains and floods caused great destruction in the province. It will take 25 years for people to stand on their feet again. More than 200 billion was lost in the province.

2 days ago, Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Khairpur and Qamar Shahdadkot. Speaking on the occasion, the Army Chief said that it will take many years to heal, relieve and restore the affected areas.

The Army Chief said that despite the effort, the resources of the federal and provincial government and the armed forces are limited, and philanthropists have to come forward and help the flood victims as they wish. Only with support will the restoration work be done better.

On the other hand, the possibilities of embezzlement and corruption in the aid given to the country cannot be ignored. There is a need for the government to ensure clear and transparent delivery of aid from abroad and other sources to the flood victims as soon as possible.