KARACHI:
The images of homes destroyed by the floods this year have struck a chord with people across the globe. Relief efforts have been underway, with everyone donating and helping out in their own capacity. These efforts have been spearheaded by local non-profit organisations as well as families who are collecting funds and distributing independently without the aid of any entity.
On the contrary, video clips of government’s relief efforts have been circulating over social media with one clip in particular causing fury among the masses. In a video recording made by a flood victim, a government deployed helicopter can be seen throwing bags containing ration from mid-air onto the ground, causing the ration bags to explode. Flood victims have been left to feel not only hopeless and helpless, but also as if they are being treated insensitively due to such actions. Such examples leave citizens feeling like they cannot support and donate to government schemes for flood relief as they are not reaching those who are deserving in a fair and humane manner. It is also going against claims made by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif who stated that not a penny will be wasted in order to aid the flood victims.
As NGOs and independent efforts being made by citizens are transparently showcasing how donations are being used, people feel more comfortable channeling their time and energy towards these relief efforts. While the government can provide help at a much larger scale.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 5th, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
