KARACHI:
The torrential monsoon rains witnessed in recent years are causing devastating disasters, made even more severe by the impacts of climate change. The catastrophic floods of 2022 remain a painful reminder of our vulnerability. Khairpur Mirs was among the worst-hit districts in Sindh; nearly 57,500 homes were destroyed or severely damaged province-wide, while standing crops, government buildings, schools and other public infrastructure suffered extensive destruction. The floods also claimed precious human lives, including those of children, and left many others injured, leaving countless families devastated.
Owing to poor planning and inadequate management, floodwater remained stagnant for months because many natural waterways and drainage channels had been blocked by encroachments. The relevant authorities failed to take timely and effective measures to restore these natural watercourses or remove illegal encroachments, thereby prolonging the suffering of thousands of people.
The impacts of climate change and changing weather patterns are now evident across the globe, and Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to their consequences. It is imperative that governments and disaster management institutions shift their focus from reactive relief efforts to proactive preparedness. Strict action against encroachments on natural waterways, improved drainage systems, effective early warning mechanisms and comprehensive disaster planning are essential to reducing the severity of future calamities. Timely preventive measures can save countless lives, protect livelihoods and spare communities from unimaginable suffering.
Kashif Nawaz Shar
Khairpur Mirs
