Islamabad: A new survey conducted by the Pattan-Coalition 38 in various flood-affected regions across Pakistan has revealed significant gaps in flood preparedness, with a majority of respondents stating that provincial governments have failed to involve local communities in readiness activities. The survey, encompassing opinions from 275 individuals in 62 disaster-prone locations, underscores the lack of tangible actions to mitigate flood risks, contradicting official claims of preparedness by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and other related bodies.

According to Pattan Development Organization, the survey covered 19 districts in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and Islamabad, focusing on local perceptions of flood readiness ahead of the monsoon season, which the Meteorological Department predicts will bring above-average rainfall. The findings indicate that despite prior devastating floods and the looming threat of increased rainfall, local preparation efforts are mostly superficial, with no significant involvement of the communities at risk.

In specific areas like the G-7/2 slum of Islamabad and along Nullah Leh in Rawalpindi, residents reported a complete absence of preemptive measures such as stream cleaning or community-based committees. The survey highlighted a pervasive lack of coordination and support from both governmental bodies and NGOs, with 87% of respondents stating they have not been consulted or involved in any flood preparedness committees. Moreover, the majority of these communities face annual flooding, resulting in considerable economic losses and repeated displacement.

The Pattan-Coalition 38 has called on the NDMA, Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), and the Federal Flood Commission to urgently improve their flood management strategies. They advocate for the activation of District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) not just within district offices but also at the community level, the establishment of local committees, better community involvement in disaster preparedness, and enhancements to the early warning systems, including accessibility features for women and differently-abled individuals.