Pakistan’s Monsoon Crisis: How CARE is Responding to the Urgent Needs of Affected Communities

Pakistan’s Monsoon Crisis: A Humanitarian Emergency

Pakistan is in the grips of its most severe monsoon season in years. Heavy rains and dam water releases have caused rivers like the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej to overflow. In Punjab province alone, over 4 million people are affected, with more than 1.5 million forced to evacuate their homes.

Relief efforts are underway, but challenges abound. Camps for displaced individuals are battling serious issues like inadequate sanitation, lack of clean water, and food shortages. Women and children are particularly vulnerable. Pregnant and breastfeeding moms are struggling to find nutritious food and proper healthcare. Many girls face interruptions to their education, while families must confront trauma and survival.

Parveen, a resident of Chakwal in Punjab, shared a heartbreaking story: “At 2 a.m., the floodwater rushed in. I ran to the roof while my brother went back to save our belongings but was swept away. Everything we owned is gone. Now I am staying with relatives.”

Adil Sheraz, Director of CARE Pakistan, emphasized the urgency: “Families require shelter, food, safe water, and medical support. We aim to help over 2,000 households in Punjab with food, hygiene kits, and clean water. But recovery must go beyond survival. We need to invest in long-term solutions for these communities.”

Since late June 2025, nearly 910 lives have been lost, over 9,000 homes damaged, and 240 bridges washed away. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, CARE Pakistan is distributing hygiene kits and assessing cash assistance for families in need.

In Sindh, anticipatory actions are being taken ahead of expected floods. These include maintenance of facilities in evacuation sites and supplying essentials to families.

As the crisis unfolds, it’s clear that the impact is vast and deeply felt. Community resilience will be crucial for rebuilding lives and livelihoods, especially as the climate continues to change the landscape in Pakistan.

For further insights on flood preparedness and community resilience, check out the UN’s latest report.

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Flooding,Humanitarian and Emergency Relief,Pakistan