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THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF FLOODS: EVIDENCE FROM PUNJAB AND SINDH PROVINCES

Open Access
Journal Type:Research Article
Subject Field: Public Policy and Administration
Downloads:363
Publish Date:August 18, 2025 8:00 pm
Views:62
Volume:179, Issue: 1, August, 2025
Subject:Social Sciences & Psychology
Pages:45-59

Abstract

Floods are among the most severe natural disasters, inflicting significant environmental and socioeconomic damage. Pakistan faces heightened flood risk due to its geographic position and the effects of climate change (Hussain et al., 2020). Punjab and Sindh—two of the countrys most critical agricultural regions—have experienced repeated flood events over recent decades, resulting in infrastructure damage, loss of life, and widespread socio-economic disruption (Hussain et al., 2020). This paper uses mixed methods, including survey data and field observations, to assess the short- and longterm socio-economic impacts of floods in these provinces. The agricultural sector, a key livelihood source, suffers severe losses in crops, livestock, and irrigation infrastructure, contributing to rural poverty and increased migration to urban areas. Such disruption not only hampers food security but also undermines economic growth and exacerbates regional disparities (Hussain et al., 2020). Floods also severely affect health and education. Overcrowding in temporary shelters, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water facilitate the spread of diseases such as cholera and dysentery. School closures and infrastructure damage hinder access to education, particularly in rural areas. Women are disproportionately affected, bearing increased caregiving burdens while being largely excluded from decision-making and recovery efforts (Hussain et al., 2020). Governance issues—such as delayed response, inadequate disaster planning, and weak recovery frameworks—compound these challenges. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing the multifaceted consequences of flooding in Punjab and Sindh and offering policy insights to enhance resilience and inform sustainable disaster risk reduction strategies. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved flood forecasting, inclusive disaster management, and resilience-building strategies.

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