EU unveils €3m aid boost for Pakistan flood victims

The European Union has announced an additional €3 million in emergency assistance to support communities devastated by this year's catastrophic monsoon floods in Pakistan, with priority relief directed towards the worst-hit districts of Punjab.

The latest tranche of aid comes as millions struggle to rebuild after unprecedented rainfall displaced millions and destroyed homes, livelihoods and farmland.

"The European Union is releasing €3 million in emergency aid for communities hit hard by the floods in Pakistan, with a focus on the most affected areas in Punjab. The support will be delivered as cash assistance, so vulnerable household can meet immediate needs and start rebuilding their lives," the EU said in a statement.

The new funds build on previous relief efforts. "The new allocation adds to the €1.05 million mobilised in September for healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and other essential services," the release noted.

The scale of this year's destruction has been staggering. "This year's monsoon has hit almost 7 million people and forced 2.9 million from their homes. The floods claimed over a thousand deaths across the country, damaging over 200,000 houses and causing widespread farming losses."

Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality, Hadja Lahbib, underscored the urgency of the situation and the EU's commitment.