Monsoon inaction

On October 9, 2024, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) published its 2024 Monsoon Summary on Pakistan, which underscores the weak response of the Pakistani government to natural disasters. Pakistan experienced significant monsoon rains from July to September, resulting in an estimated 368 deaths and 668 injuries. These figures, depict the inadequate planning of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The flooding displaced thousands of people, damaged critical infrastructure, and submerged farmland, threatening food security and livelihoods.

Pakistan is one of the countries, most vulnerable to extreme weather events caused and/or exacerbated by the climate crisis, as seen with the devastating floods in 2022. The government's failure to develop sustainable policies that could prevent substantial loss of life and property is evident. The havoc caused by the monsoon in 2024 highlights Pakistan’s ongoing humanitarian needs and the urgent requirement to strengthen disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation strategies.

Sajjad Ali Memon

Islamabad