Displaced family crafts garlands to keep dignity alive

After devastating floods washed away their huts, a large family that migrated from rural Gujranwala has now taken refuge on the footpaths of Rawalpindi's Commercial Market. Their survival depends on making and selling flower garlands, bouquets, and strings.

The displaced family—consisting of 10 children, four women, and seven men—now lives under the open sky, sleeping on the pavement near the parking circle.

Family elder Maqsood Ahmed said they lost everything to the flood but managed to save their children and move to Rawalpindi on a free ride. "We buy fresh roses and jasmine from the wholesale market, and sitting on the pavement, our women and children make garlands, bouquets, and malas, which we sell for Rs100 to Rs250. It's barely enough for survival, but at least it's not begging."

The family appeals to the government, local administration, and business community to help them with pushcarts for fruits and vegetables or jobs such as hotel work so they can earn a dignified livelihood.

Despite hardships, the family keeps their living space clean and hopes to return to their village once conditions normalise. "Our children have also learned the art of making garlands," said Maqsood, "but we long for better days when we won't have to raise them on a footpath."