The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $3 million emergency grant to assist Pakistan in coping with the devastating floods. ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa confirmed the decision on Friday, highlighting the bank’s commitment to helping Pakistan during this critical time.
International Aid from Global Partners
The announcement follows recent pledges from international donors aimed at easing Pakistan’s humanitarian crisis. Earlier this week, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation committed $1 million to support flood-affected communities. The aid will be channelled through the World Health Organization (WHO), targeting nearly 465,000 people across 33 flood-impacted districts in all four provinces.
WHO’s representative in Pakistan, Dr. Daping Luo, expressed gratitude to the Gates Foundation and emphasized WHO’s commitment to protecting lives. He also noted that worsening monsoon rains, intensified by climate change, have caused recurring natural disasters in the country.
In addition, the United Nations has allocated $600,000 for Pakistan’s flood relief. According to UN officials, the funds will support urgent humanitarian efforts and essential recovery programs.
Human and Infrastructure Losses in Pakistan
Pakistan has been facing widespread destruction due to heavy monsoon rains and floods. Between June 26 and August 27, the floods claimed at least 802 lives, leaving more than 1,000 people injured.
The devastation also includes:
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Over 5,500 livestock deaths.
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7,465 houses completely destroyed.
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658 kilometers of roads and 238 bridges damaged.
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Seven health centers destroyed and 89 partially damaged.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has endured the heaviest damage, with large-scale displacement and significant infrastructure loss.
Urgent Relief and Recovery Needed
The scale of destruction highlights the urgent need for both short-term humanitarian relief and long-term recovery planning. Local authorities, international organizations, and aid agencies continue to work together to provide food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare for displaced communities.
ADB’s $3 million emergency grant, combined with contributions from the Gates Foundation and the United Nations, demonstrates the growing international solidarity with Pakistan. This support will play a crucial role in strengthening relief efforts and helping flood-affected families rebuild their lives.
