Federal and Balochistan Governments Set Sights on Rehabilitating Monsoon Flood Victims

Islamabad:The federal and Balochistan governments have turned their attention to the rehabilitation of those affected by recent monsoon rains, with plans now solidifying two years after the devastation. Through cooperation with the World Bank, both governments have initiated a project worth Rs. 60 billion. Four project directors have been appointed to oversee the initiative, which falls under the federal Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives.

Mr. Asfandyar Kakar, overseeing the rehabilitation of flood victims in Balochistan, informed Geo News that over 30 districts in the province were affected by flash floods following the 2022 monsoon rains. The aftermath resulted in the destruction of more than 300,000 homes, while roads, bridges, and agricultural fields also suffered significant damage.

A joint survey by federal and provincial governments estimated losses from the floods at Rs. 900 billion. However, approval for the Balochistan flood rehabilitation project was granted just last month, after a two-year delay.

The Rs. 60 billion project focuses on four key sectors: irrigation, housing, early recovery, and meteorological services. Project directors for three sectors have been appointed from Balochistan, while the meteorological services project director is from the federal department. The first phase of the project aims to reconstruct 3,500 homes for affected individuals, with subsequent efforts focusing on restoring damaged roads and agriculture.

This initiative marks a critical step towards mitigating the impact of natural disasters and fostering resilience in affected communities across Balochistan.