Post-Flood Rehabilitation of Affected Communities by NGOs in Punjab, Pakistan-Learning Lessons for Future

Flood is one of the most frequently occurring disasters in the world which causes loss of thousands of human lives and properties worth millions of dollars. Pakistan faced severe flood during the year 2010. Most of the damage occurred in Punjab, the most populous province of the country. The federal and provincial governments attempted to rescue people and to restore/provide shelter. But both could not meet public expectations due to lack of institutional capacity and financial resources. In this situation, several NGOs took part in rehabilitation of affected communities on existing as well as new sites. Two of such communities have been taken as case studies. A detailed investigation reveals that NGOs played very effective role in improving living conditions and quality of life in affected communities. Resultantly, a vast majority of residents is satisfied. Some issues pertaining to the rehabilitation process and maintenance of settlements have also surfaced. Nevertheless, the experience of NGOs in this regard demonstrates many attributes of good rehabilitation strategy which are worth considering by other countries.