Editorial:
The disastrous situation developed in the aftermath of heavy rainfall in Balochistan demands the provincial rulers and ‘friendly opposition’ to spend their days with flood affectees. However, the situation is quite different here.
Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Quddus Bizenjo once visited the flooded Lasbela district in a helicopter and then visited Killa Saifullah along with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The cabinet members are hardly seen in the flood-affected areas. The friendly opposition has also preferred to be mum when it comes to supporting the flood-affected people and criticizing the government.
Flash floods unleashed by heavy rainfall have wreaked havoc across Balochistan. Floods and rains claimed precious human lives, destroyed standing crops, killed livestock, and swept away bridges, dams, and roads throughout the province.
The 30-year average rainfall record has been broken
A statement from the climate change ministry said that the 30-year average for rainfall in Balochistan and Sindh had been broken. In Balochistan, the destruction caused by floods is beyond imagination.
The Balochistan government has declared an emergency in 26 out of a total of 34 districts of Balochistan. Some deputy commissioners have performed well when it comes to rescue and relief operations. Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps have extended all-out support to the provincial government in evacuating the stranded people.
Above all, Commander 12-Corps Lieutenant General Sarfaraz Ali and other military officers embraced martyrdom in the relief and rescue operation in Lasbella.
The Balochistan government should take the lead
Nevertheless, it is the core responsibility of the Balochistan government to get a leading role in the rescue and relief operations. The CM and cabinet members should come out of their offices and support the people on the ground and encourage the rescue workers to evacuate the people.
The damages are beyond comprehension. Chief Secretary Balochistan Abdul Aziz Uqaili has comparatively performed well when it comes to monitoring the situation and directing the concerned quarters in supporting the flood affectees.
A comprehensive and fair survey of the damages needs to be conducted to ensure compensation to the affectees across Balochistan. The provincial government should also seriously approach the federal government to announce a special package for the rehabilitation of affectees, growers, and farmers of Balochistan.
