TL/DR –
Severe flooding in Pakistan’s Sindh province has left thousands afflicted by disease and food insecurity, with little support from the government or international community. Many of those displaced by the floods are living in tents and suffering from health issues due to stagnant floodwaters. Amnesty International has criticized both the Sindh government and the international community for their lack of action, noting that the elderly, children, and pregnant women are at particular risk of illness and death.
Thousands Lack Support after Severe Flooding in Pakistan’s Sindh Province
Severe flooding in Pakistan’s Sindh province has led to serious health and food insecurity, with thousands of people left unsupported, according to Amnesty International.
Following the heavy rainfall in August 2024, over 140,000 people were displaced, many of whom are now living in tents. The situation is exacerbated by minimal government and international support. The stagnant floodwaters have resulted in widespread disease, putting the elderly, children, and pregnant women at greater risk.
The government of Sindh has failed to provide adequate healthcare, food, and housing. Amnesty International emphasizes the need for phasing out fossil fuels to mitigate climate change’s impact on human rights.
“The Government Provided Us a Tent, and Nothing Else”
The flood-affected communities face numerous troubles. Most homes were destroyed, forcing people to live in tents. Almost everyone affected has at least one family member who is sick, with diseases like malaria and skin infections being common.
The aftermath of the floods also had a significant impact on sanitary conditions, particularly for women. Due to the lack of finances, most could not relocate to safer areas and above floodwaters.
“Why Should I Build It Again and Again If the Floods Will Come Again in a Year?”
The floods have destroyed over 500,000 acres of agricultural lands, causing massive financial stress for families relying on crop cultivation. Many are currently surviving on one meal per day.
With previously provided government and international aid falling far short, many survivors see no point in rebuilding, especially given the repeated occurrence of floods.
Impact on Children’s Education
According to UNICEF, the education of at least 230,000 children was disrupted due to flood damage.
Background
Amnesty International has previously highlighted the extreme weather conditions like heat and flooding in Pakistan as a stark reminder for urgent climate action. The organization is set to release a major report in 2025 on climate change’s effects on marginalized communities in Pakistan.
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