THE meteorological department and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have been active during the last few months. They predicted 10 to 20pc more rains and high floods.

The Sindh government recalling 2010 and 2011 horrific memories of heavy rains seemed to be active in checking embankments, getting briefings, and issuing directions. Qaim Ali Shah, the outgoing Sindh chief minister, did not control his rage while saying that the meteorological department’s rain and flood forecast has given them a tough time and he was continuously on his toes.

Responding to a question about the conditions of embankments and bunds, he had said that they were sturdy and strong. If the bunds and embankments are strong and needed no repair where has Rs350 million for their repair gone?

Furthermore, a high alert during monsoon is a routine practice then why was only this time the chief minister along with his whole government machinery seen active all the time.

The Sindh government is known for its slothfulness in normal times and when it comes to emergency, it has never been proactive.

Mr Shah’s statement that there is no fear of heavy rains and flood means that the government, NDMA, PDMAs and other departments concerned will go into hibernation. If that happens it will be alarming because the monsoon season has just started and erratic weather trends can hoodwink the meteorological department and floods and heavy rains can cause havoc with the province.

Gulsher Panhwer

Johi

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2016