ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched Rs 37 billion relief programme to provide Rs 25,000 cash assistance each among 1.5 million families across flood-hit areas of country.

Addressing launching ceremony he said cash disbursement would be done through Benazir Income Support Programme in collaboration with National Disaster Management Authority and other allied departments.He said heavy monsoons and consequent floods affected all four provinces with Balochistan being most affected where hundreds of people died and infrastructure was destroyed.

He paid tribute to six martyred Army officers including Quetta Corps Commander Lt. General Sarfaraz who sacrificed their lives in a chopper crash during flood relief operation. Mentioning his multiple visits to flood-hit areas, he appreciated rescue and relief efforts of all including NDMA, PDMAs, National Highway Authority and other provincial departments.

“Whole nation needs to unite to face this situation. Federal and provincial governments are also cooperating. Our international partners and donors are also extending their support,” he added.

He told gathering that cash assistance programme launched in Jhal Magsi area of Balochistan, would support over Rs 9 million people across country. As assured by NDMA chairman, he said cash disbursement would be completed within three days to help people afford their food and other immediate needs. He said in next phase, a joint survey would be carried out to assess damages to crops, houses, highways and bridges which would follow coordination with provinces to carry out rehabilitation work.

He thanked Finance Minister Miftah Ismail for scraping Rs 37 billion from national kitty to support flood-hit people in that distressing time.

Programme has initially been launched in four districts of Balochistan including Jhal Magsi, Khuzdar, Qilla Abdulla and Lasbella. Through a video link, beneficiaries in Jhal Magsi area were also shown receiving cash assistance.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 20 2022

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.