Islamabad: Pakistani authorities on Wednesday warned that floods caused by monsoon rains could affect millions more people this year, but claimed it was better prepared after a massive humanitarian crisis in 2010.
Last year, monsoon-triggered floods affected more than 21 millions people and killed some 1,750 people, causing an estimated US$10 billion in losses and hammering the already miserable economy.
“There is a very little chance of flooding at the scale of last year and not more than two million people are likely to be affected by floods this year,” said Zafar Qadir, the head of the National Disaster Management Authority. Last year’s floods were the worst in Pakistan’s history.
“Even if there is flooding like last year, not more than six million people will be affected and we are prepared for that,” Qadir said.
Qadir further said that normal annual rain fall in Pakistan is 137.5 mm and that this year a 10 percent decline is forecast, except in northern regions where a 10 percent increase is likely.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription