Pakistan flood victims of 2022 still in distress due to government apathy
More than two and a half years have passed since Pakistan experienced devastating floods, yet the aftermath remains a significant challenge. Over 10 million people continue to face health problems and limited access to clean drinking water and essential services. Waterborne diseases have surged in flood-affected regions as many displaced residents rely on stagnant, contaminated water sources.
Public health concerns, including acute watery diarrhea, skin infections, typhoid, malaria, dengue fever, and snake bites, have been widely reported. According to the Red Cross, young children and infants are particularly vulnerable, with over three million children at increased risk of disease. “There’s a lack of proper sanitation for people living in shelters, public buildings, or emergency camps. Waterborne diseases are rising among displaced populations,” the organization stated.
The floods of 2022 displaced over 33 million people and damaged nearly half of the water facilities in affected areas. A study conducted by the International Organization for Migration’s Global Data Institute (GDI) highlighted that many flood survivors were forced to draw water from unsafe and open sources. “Accessing water through such sources has contributed to outbreaks of cholera, malaria, and other waterborne diseases,” the report noted.
The ongoing recovery efforts have faced criticism for their pace and scope. In Sindh province, more than 140,000 displaced individuals still live in temporary shelters. Amnesty International has expressed concern over the situation, stating that affected communities continue to face health risks and food insecurity with limited governmental or international support. “With disease rampant due to stagnant floodwaters, older people, children, and pregnant women remain at heightened risk of illness and death,” Amnesty International said.
The government had announced plans to build two million climate-resilient homes for those displaced, but progress has been slow. This has left individuals like Resham Bibi, who now resides in a mud house, feeling uncertain about their safety. “We are scared that our home’s weak roof and walls might collapse. Sometimes water enters, and we fear losing our home again,” she shared.
A study by researchers from Oman, Pakistan, and Ireland revealed that approximately 40% of those affected by the floods became homeless and lost access to basic necessities and healthcare. The study, led by Dr. Qaiser Ali Khan of Khyber Teaching Hospital, stated, “Inadequate planning increases harm, fatalities, and injuries, while also limiting access to medical care and disaster response systems, ultimately impacting the quality of life in affected areas.”
Stories from survivors illustrate the ongoing challenges. Khalid Hussain, a flood survivor, described how his father’s health deteriorated after prolonged exposure to unsafe water. “Before the flood, he was healthy and fit. Now, due to kidney issues caused by extended diarrhea, he cannot eat unassisted. We relied on floodwater for drinking. The government provided a tent but no additional support,” he said.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has emphasized that Pakistan remains vulnerable to future disasters. Shabnam Baloch, IRC Pakistan Director, identified key challenges such as displacement, the prevalence of waterborne diseases, agricultural losses, and damaged housing. “Families are still struggling to rebuild their homes and livelihoods as the flooding overwhelmed local capacities,” Baloch said.
As Pakistan continues its recovery journey, the need for sustained efforts in public health, infrastructure, and disaster preparedness remains urgent. Strengthening disaster response systems and enhancing resilience to climate-induced events will be critical in addressing current challenges and mitigating the impact of future disasters.
References
- https://www.redcross.org.uk/stories/disasters-and-emergencies/world/risk-of-waterborne-disease-after-pakistan-floods
- https://dtm.iom.int/youthengagement/flooded-yet-thirsty-climate-disaster-and-water-access-pakistan-during-2022-2023
- https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/10/pakistan-flood-survivors-in-sindh-province-suffer-disease-and-food-insecurity-amid-government-inaction-new-testimony/
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/pakistan-2022-floods-disaster-extreme-weather-climate-change-rebuilding-homes-4746091
- https://journals.lww.com/annals-of-medicine-and-surgery/fulltext/2024/11000/impact_of_2022_flood_on_socio_economic_and_health.23.aspx
- https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/10/pakistan-flood-survivors-in-sindh-province-suffer-disease-and-food-insecurity-amid-government-inaction-new-testimony/
- https://www.brookings.edu/articles/pakistan-floods
- https://www.ft.com/content/5dbcb6d5-d6bf-4549-9aa5-fd964efbc206
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