THE recurrence of extreme weather phenomena in Pakistan appears to be adding to food insecurity concerns in the country.

As the findings of a survey — conducted by the National Disaster Management Authority and the UN — examining the effects of September’s floods in Punjab show, the deluge has affected standing crops that were ready for harvesting, while food stocks have also been hit.

The study, which focused on five Punjab districts, says around 77pc of crops in the area were damaged, with Multan and Jhang suffering the most. These two districts, along with Chiniot, also witnessed food stock losses of around 50pc. The report says that prior to the floods all five districts were considered food secure.

Some studies suggest that up to 50pc of Pakistan’s population may be food insecure. This is mainly due to lack of access to food, as the high cost of edibles takes them beyond the reach of people’s purchasing power. However, when natural disasters strike, the situation is aggravated.

In the aftermath of the floods, the economy might be affected as exports suffer, but the greater threat is to the local people whose purchasing power is dealt a blow because with no crops left to sell, their income is reduced.

The situation should prompt the state into preparing a plan that can address food security issues during emergencies, as well as extending a helping hand to families that cannot access adequate nutrition due to financial constraints.

Perhaps establishing a network of food banks can address this problem. This can be done on a district-wise basis so that food is quickly dispatched to those most at risk. Only the state has the infrastructure — especially where warehousing and transport are concerned — to pull this off, though the private sector can be brought in to ensure that food storage and distribution is done in an effective and transparent manner.

Considering there is enough food to go around, it will be inexcusable if efforts are not made to ensure it reaches the hungry.

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2014