The worst flood since 1929 has hit Pakistan

The worst flood since 1929 has hit Pakistan causing the death of an estimated 1,600 people, another 1300 injured and at least 14 million affected. The rains started between July 28th and July 30th. Since then the rains have been relentless over the last 3 weeks, hampering the distribution of aid to various communities and the evacuation of civilians. The flash floods have not only taken human life but also left considerable damage to property and livestock.

Since then the rains have been relentless over the last 3 weeks, hampering the distribution of aid to various communities and the evacuation of civilians.  The flash floods have not only taken human life but also left considerable damage to property and livestock.

Disease is becoming a pressing concern for those who still remain in affected areas as cholera and dysentery begin to spread.  The damage done to agricultural land will leave many without a source of income or home once the water recedes.   Reports coming from the United Nations for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs say that 6 to 7 million people are in need of immediate food another items – more than those affected by the 2005 South Asia tsunami and earthquake.

Flooding

The magnitude of the flooding is so massive it has been hard to assess the damage. Many within Pakistan are angry over the slow reactions from their President Asif Ali Zardari as he chose to finish his trip to England instead of returning to Pakistan at the height of the floods.

Currently the US has sent $35 million in aid and Europe another €30 million.  But, again, poor weather is hampering the effectiveness of this aid as helicopters and soldiers cannot reach those in need of basic food, water and supplies.

The affects this flood will have on the local population will far outlast the receding of the waters that submerge the country.  Lack of basic infrastructure, agricultural lands, livestock, and housing will directly impact those communities for years to come if action is not taken to ensure for a comprehensive recovery plan.   But as always, only time will tell what the after affects will be for Pakistan.

What can we do to help?  Donate – donate supplies and money to organisations you trust.  Humanitarian aid is only as effective as the resources pumped into it.  Aid workers are scrambling to help those most affected and are appealing to international communities and Pakistanis living aboard to contribute what they can to help those in need.

Organisations like Oxfam, the Disasters Emergency Committee, UNICEF, and The Red Cross are all appealing for more aid.  We cannot forget the human side to these mass disasters.