Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that province is witnessing its worst floods in history and destruction is far more disastrous than one witnessed in 2010 or 2012.

In a press conference, he lauded government departments and private entities for their donation, relief and rescue efforts. "So far, 470 deaths and 8,314 injuries have been reported, however, millions of people have been displaced," he said. "Over 3 million mud-houses exist in Sindh and not a single such home is standing in those areas that have been flooded." Citing figures, he added that on average, 1,100 mm of rain took place in province. He asked media to show true picture of Sindh and "not spread panic."

Talking about relief efforts of provincial government, he added that millions of mosquito nets and rations have been supplied.

Meanwhile, flood victims in Sindh are reportedly struggling to receive Rs 25,000 grant announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). In Tando Muhammad Khan, some affectees are also reportedly facing a deduction of Rs 2,000-3,000 in their amounts while CNICs of many others have been blocked. People whose CNICs are blocked are now supposed to go to a different centre to get them unblocked. Development comes at a time when floods continue to wreak havoc in Pakistan as government, non-governmental organisations and private entities conduct rescue and relief measures while new areas of country got submerged in water.

Crop fields witnessed partial or complete destruction whereas, people displaced by disaster are at risk of contracting water-borne diseases. Death toll from floods soared to over 1,200 while count of injured people is approaching 5,000.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 03 2022

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