Pakistan Seeks $160 Million in Emergency Funding as Floodwaters Rise

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations and the government of Pakistan are appealing for $160 million in emergency funding to help the millions of people affected by the record-breaking floods. The floods, caused by unprecedented monsoon rains, have killed over 1,150 people since June and displaced millions more. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the world needs to take action against climate change, saying "Today, it's Pakistan. Tomorrow, it could be your country."

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 33 million people, or one in seven Pakistanis, have been affected by the catastrophic flooding.
  • More than one million homes have been damaged or destroyed in the past two-and-a-half months, displacing millions of people.
  • Over half a million displaced people are living in organized camps, while others have had to find their own shelter.
  • The government estimates that the devastation has caused $10 billion in damage to the economy, a preliminary estimate that may be far greater.
  • More than 160 bridges and over 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) of road have been damaged.
  • The National Disaster Management Authority warned emergency services to be on maximum alert, saying flood waters over the next 24 hours could cause further damage.
  • Rescuers are continuing to evacuate stranded people from inundated villages to safer ground.
  • Meteorologists have warned of more rains in coming weeks, which could exacerbate the situation.

Statistics:

  • Over 1,150 people have been killed in the floods since June.
  • More than 33 million people have been affected by the floods.
  • Over one million homes have been damaged or destroyed.
  • Over half a million displaced people are living in organized camps.
  • The government estimates that the devastation has caused $10 billion in damage to the economy.
  • Over 160 bridges and over 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) of road have been damaged.

Sources:

Associated Press

United Nations

Pakistani government

[1] Zahid Hussain, Associated Press.