Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: The recent torrential rains that have mercilessly pounded Balochistan, claiming the lives of 22 individuals and wreaking havoc on communities, serve as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters. Among the most affected districts, Chaman stands out, bearing the brunt of devastation with a toll of eight lives lost and widespread destruction of homes, bridges, and roads. The situation in Gwadar and the Makran belt paints a similarly grim picture, with flash floods leaving vast areas submerged and communities stranded.
This catastrophe, however, is not just a consequence of erratic weather patterns but also a testament to the failure of authorities to adequately address the aftermath of disasters. It’s been two years since floods ravaged the region, leaving many displaced and vulnerable. Yet, the promised rehabilitation efforts remain largely unfulfilled, leaving communities exposed and ill-prepared for subsequent calamities. Sixty homes obliterated, over 100 damaged, bridges washed away, and roads rendered impassable—these are not just statistics but glaring indicators of administrative negligence.
State Of Emergency Declared In Balochistan
As the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) rushes to respond to the immediate crisis, declaring a state of emergency and mobilizing resources, we cannot ignore the underlying issues that perpetuate such catastrophes. The looming threat of climate change exacerbates the already precarious situation in Balochistan. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events demand urgent attention and comprehensive strategies.
It’s high time that authorities prioritize proactive measures over reactive responses. Immediate relief efforts must be coupled with long-term planning aimed at building resilient infrastructure, implementing early warning systems, and empowering local communities to cope with and adapt to changing climatic conditions. Moreover, the rehabilitation of flood affectees from two years ago cannot continue to be sidelined. Their plight serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of bureaucratic inertia and political apathy.
Balochistan Cannot Wait For Another Disaster
Balochistan cannot afford to wait for the next disaster to spur action. The time for rhetoric and half-hearted promises is over. The lives lost and the homes destroyed demand accountability, foresight, and decisive action. Anything short of a concerted effort to address both the immediate needs and the underlying causes of vulnerability would be a betrayal of trust and a disservice to the resilient people of Balochistan.
