Editorial
Flooding in Pakistan
We should extend a helping hand
Pakistan has been hit by the worst floods in a century, and according to official sources the losses have been worse than that of the earthquake of 2005. The enormity of the disaster is quite incomprehensible as much as the suddenness of it.
The loss in human lives and livestock has been unprecedented. It is estimated that nearly twenty million people have been affected, and with more rain predicted the situation is not likely to abate soon. By any definition the situation in the flood affected areas has assumed a catastrophic proportion. And in this hour of national calamity, a testing time of tribulation, we offer our deepest sympathy to the flood affected people of Pakistan.
For us in Bangladesh it is not difficult to relate psychologically with the tragedy caused by floods and other natural calamities. We have been victims of similar devastations and wrath of nature that we keep constant company with. The distress of the flood affected people resonates in us only too well.
Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has acknowledged that the unprecedented devastation caused by the country's worst ever floods has gone beyond the government's control. While calling for help from the international community Mr. Gilani has admitted that his government has done everything possible, but the situation has gone beyond the capacity of the government to tackle all by itself.
It is encouraging to see the international response by way of commitment made to the relief effort. Some 450 million USD is required of which some 150 million has been committed. But Pakistan needs more than mere commitments. And we take this opportunity to call upon the Government of Bangladesh to extend all possible help within its capacity to the flood affected people of Pakistan for now as well as all necessary assistance to tide over the post disaster phase, and for which preparations must start now.
We recall the swiftness with which the Bangladesh government had reacted in providing help to the earthquake victims of Pakistan not very long ago. And while our government should take the lead in providing relief, in this regard the private sector, particularly the NGOs, can play a complementary role alongside that of the government's.
It is to our credit that Bangladesh has evolved outstanding expertise on management of flood and post flood phase of relief and rehabilitation, and this should be offered to the extent possible to help relief operations in Pakistan. We feel too that it is time for SAARC as a regional body to assume appropriate role and help Pakistan combat the situation.
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