Monsoon mayhem

The current monsoon season has already taken a heavy human toll, with scores reported dead across the country. Rains have washed away bridges, destroyed homes and killed livestock as people continue to pay the price for the lack of preparedness by authorities. Till now, the provinces of Punjab, Khyner-Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan remain the most affected areas. Tourists are again stranded in northern areas of the country as particularly heavy rains in the region led to devastating flash floods. Lahore broke its 44-year rainfall record after it had received more than 300mm rain in a few hours. Essential services such as hospitals, electricity and air and rail transportation faced significant disruptions. The NDMA has cautioned that different regions of the country may experience urban and flash flooding in the near future.

Climate change-induced extreme weather events have taken a particular toll on Pakistan during the last few years and it is essential to plan our infrastructure and urban areas accordingly. However, such measures will take time and funding – for which Pakistan requires support from international donors. Investing in better forecasting equipment and preparing plans to safeguard communities at risk can be achieved relatively quickly and will mitigate loss of life. The state should also consult experts to develop a plan to reduce flooding risks. Their recommendations must be implemented with genuine commitment.

It is about time that the major urban areas of the country, particularly Karachi, were paid special attention by provincial and federal authorities. The city should not come to a standstill every time it receives double-digit rainfall. A coordinated effort is essential to permanently address the issue of urban flooding. Although even well-developed cities face challenges with urban flooding, this should not be used as an excuse to neglect Karachi. The ongoing cycle of rain-related deaths, displacements and destruction must not continue indefinitely.