It is essential for the government, media, and society as a whole to come together and prioritize the well-being of all citizens, especially those who are the most affected and vulnerable
Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo
The global pandemic and recent flood disasters have had a profound impact on the rural population, with women and children and daily wagers, low-income families being the most severely affected. These vulnerable groups face unique challenges and are often disproportionately impacted during times of crisis. If one reviews the social and economic indicators of Sindh the situation is getting worst with every passing moment.
The farmers in rural Sindh have been hit hard by the combined effects of the pandemic and floods. Their standing crops have been lost, leaving them in a precarious situation as they struggle to sow and harvest again, in the majority of cases they even feel unsafe investing and restarting again. This not only affects their livelihoods but also disrupts the local food supply chain, potentially leading to food insecurity in the region. The already vulnerable farming community is now facing even more difficulties in sustaining themselves and their families.
Adding to the challenges faced by the rural population, the international humanitarian assistance that could potentially aid in rebuilding efforts has been diverted to other regions such as Ukraine and Turkey. This redirection of resources further exacerbates the plight of the rural communities in Sindh, leaving them with limited support and options for recovery. In my opinion, they still are battling survival, recovery phase seems far from them.
The responsibility of rebuilding rural Sindh lies primarily with the government. However, it is disheartening to note that instead of prioritizing the needs of its citizens, the government seems to be more engaged in political point-scoring and proving one party or individual wrong while the other one right, they never lose any opportunity to gain point scoring but none will see them actively engaged in general public development movement. This lack of focus and coordination hampers effective decision-making and delays the implementation of much-needed relief measures.
Urgent action is needed to address the immediate needs of the rural population, provide the necessary support for recovery, and ensure that the voices of the affected communities are heard and amplified
The media channels also bear a significant responsibility in raising awareness about the hardships faced by both rural and urban citizens of Sindh. However, it is disconcerting that none of the media outlets seem to be prioritizing these issues. The media has a vital role to play in highlighting the challenges faced by the affected population, amplifying their voices, and mobilizing public support for relief efforts. By neglecting the hardships of the rural and urban citizens of Sindh, the media is failing in its duty to inform and advocate for those most in need.
We are about to host another monsoon, and periodic heat waves are also continuing and disproportionately impacting the residents of Sindh. Urgent action is needed to address the immediate needs of the rural population, provide the necessary support for recovery, and ensure that the voices of the affected communities are heard and amplified.
Civil Society Organizations should strengthen their networks and partner with local institutions to seed resources, and expertise and provide integrated services at household levels. International organizations, NGOs, and humanitarian agencies must secure additional support and resources. By leveraging partnerships and collaborations, the government can ensure a more comprehensive and effective response to the crisis. It is crucial to advocate for the redirection of international assistance back to the affected areas in Sindh, highlighting the urgent need for support and making a strong case for the region’s recovery. It is essential for the government, media, and society as a whole to come together and prioritize the well-being of all citizens, especially those who are the most affected and vulnerable.
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Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo is Community Development Professional based in Hyderabad Sindh
