Government Announces Rs. 2 Million Compensation for Families of Flood Victims – No Relief for Illegal Constructions

Recent heavy rains and devastating floods in different parts of Pakistan have caused widespread destruction, claiming dozens of precious lives. In response to this tragic situation, the federal government has announced a financial relief package for the families of those who lost their lives. Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar, shared the details during a media briefing in Wazirabad.

Compensation for Families of Deceased Victims

The minister stated that each family of a person who died due to the floods would receive Rs. 2 million as compensation. He explained that while no amount of money can replace a lost life, the government aims to provide some financial assistance to ease the burden on grieving families. For households that lost a breadwinner in this natural disaster, the announced aid will serve as an essential support in their difficult times.

No Relief for Illegal Constructions

Attaullah Tarar made it clear that compensation will not be provided for losses caused to illegal constructions built along riverbanks and natural water channels. He stressed that individuals who knowingly constructed houses or structures in flood-prone areas took that risk on their own. The government, therefore, cannot be held responsible for such damages.

He also announced that, going forward, no construction will be allowed in natural water pathways, drains, or riverbeds to avoid similar disasters in the future.

Flood Situation and Rescue Operations

Speaking about the unusual weather conditions, the minister said that this year, three to four major rain systems occurred simultaneously, which led to abnormal flooding in multiple rivers.

• The water level in three major rivers rose significantly, affecting thousands of villages and towns.
• More than 200,000 people were rescued and shifted to safe locations during large-scale operations.
• The Pakistan Army, civil defense forces, local administration, and other agencies worked hand in hand to carry out rescue missions.

Tarar noted that without this timely and coordinated response, the scale of destruction could have been much greater.

Relief Activities for Affected Families

To address the immediate needs of displaced families, the government and rescue agencies have taken several steps:

• Tents were distributed to provide temporary shelter.
• Food and clean drinking water were supplied to ensure survivors did not face hunger or thirst.
• Medical facilities and medicines were arranged to treat the sick, injured, and vulnerable individuals.

The minister assured the public that the government would continue its support until all affected families are rehabilitated.

Survey of Damages to Houses, Crops, and Livestock

Apart from human casualties, the floods also destroyed homes, crops, and livestock. The government has initiated a comprehensive survey to assess the full extent of losses.

• Many farmers saw their standing crops washed away, wiping out their year’s hard work.
• Numerous poor families lost their livestock, which served as their main source of livelihood.
• Thousands of houses were either completely demolished or severely damaged.

According to Tarar, once the survey is completed, compensation and assistance will be distributed to affected families according to the scale of their damages.

Impact on Sialkot International Airport

The heavy rains and floodwaters also affected Sialkot International Airport, forcing the suspension of flights for 24 hours. However, officials confirmed that the runway and terminal remained safe, and operations resumed shortly afterward.

This incident highlighted that natural disasters not only devastate rural areas but can also disrupt major urban infrastructure.

Coordination Among Institutions

The minister praised the strong cooperation between government departments and rescue agencies in flood-affected areas, particularly in Gujranwala and Wazirabad. The Pakistan Army, Rescue 1122, district administration, and other departments worked closely together, preventing even greater destruction and ensuring continuous communication with the public.

Future Government Measures

The government has drawn important lessons from this disaster and has made some key decisions for the future:

1. A complete ban on construction in natural waterways.
2. No compensation for illegal constructions in high-risk areas.
3. Development of a comprehensive plan to tackle flood threats in the coming years.

Public Response

The announcement of Rs. 2 million compensation for families of deceased victims has been welcomed by many people. However, some citizens and experts emphasized that the government must also prioritize the rehabilitation of farmers and poor households who lost crops, livestock, and shelter.

They believe that financial aid alone is not enough; long-term planning, proper urban management, and disaster-prevention measures are essential to protect lives and property in the future.

Conclusion

Flooding has once again proven to be a recurring threat for Pakistan. The tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction underline the urgent need for better planning, stronger rescue systems, and strict action against unsafe construction practices.

While the government’s compensation of Rs. 2 million per deceased victim is a welcome relief for affected families, experts stress that sustainable measures—such as modern drainage systems, river management, and expanded rescue capacities—must be implemented to reduce the scale of future disasters.