INTRODUCTION

In 2024, Pakistan experienced an exceptionally intense monsoon season, with rainfall levels reaching up to 318% above normal in some areas. The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported a 60% increase in rainfall during the first two months of the season, leading to widespread flooding and landslides, especially in Sindh and Balochistan. From early July to September, monsoon-related disasters resulted in 368 fatalities, including more than 150 children, and injured over 700 people. Approximately 78,600 homes, 500 km of roads, and 40 bridges were damaged or destroyed. Additionally, 58,800 acres of farmland and nearly 2,000 livestock were lost, severely impacting livelihoods.

The floods affected nearly 551,100 people, displacing 143,200 in Sindh, 168,000 in Balochistan, and 10,100 in Punjab. The government declared 13 districts as calamity-hit. The disaster also impacted nearly three million Afghan refugees residing in affected provinces, exacerbating challenges in accessing basic services.

As the monsoon ends, receding waters may improve conditions, enabling displaced individuals to return home and easing aid distribution. However, stagnant water poses a risk of waterborne diseases, as seen during the 2022 floods. Effective management of recovery efforts and disease prevention is critical to mitigate further impacts on vulnerable populations.