Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has raised concerns over delays in providing relief to flood-affected communities, despite having held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the matter. Speaking to the media in Sukkur, Bilawal criticized the federal government for the slow delivery of assistance, particularly under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP).
He revealed that he personally urged the Prime Minister to ensure that flood relief reaches affected districts promptly. However, even after two weeks, residents of Punjab are reportedly still waiting for aid, he said. Bilawal stressed that the federal government must act urgently to prevent further hardship for those affected by the ongoing floods.
Economic Losses and Agricultural Emergency
Bilawal highlighted the enormous economic impact of the floods, estimating losses of up to $1.5 billion. He emphasized that the scale of destruction warrants the declaration of an agricultural emergency nationwide. Such a measure, he argued, would help stabilize the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities who have suffered immense damage to crops, livestock, and infrastructure.
PPP’s Stance on Dams and Water Management
Addressing questions about infrastructure development, Bilawal reiterated that the PPP supports the construction of dams to address Pakistan’s chronic water shortages and flood management issues. However, he questioned why discussions about dams on the Indus River are being publicized prematurely. “Controversial topics should be addressed after the floods have receded, rather than during a crisis,” he remarked.
Previously, Bilawal had also called for the waiver of electricity bills for farmers in flood-affected areas, highlighting the party’s focus on mitigating both immediate and long-term impacts of natural disasters on the agricultural sector.
Call for Federal Action
Bilawal’s statements reflect growing frustration among political leaders and citizens over the perceived sluggish response to a nationwide humanitarian emergency. He reiterated that coordinated federal action is crucial, especially in provinces like Sindh and Punjab, where millions have been displaced and entire villages submerged.
His criticism underscores the political pressure on the government to accelerate aid distribution, provide financial support to farmers, and ensure basic necessities reach vulnerable populations before the situation deteriorates further.
The PPP chairman’s comments also highlight broader concerns about Pakistan’s disaster management framework, particularly the need for transparency, efficiency, and accountability in emergency relief programs.
