Karachi, Pakistan (Pakistan News online) Devastating floods continue to wreak havoc across Sindh province, prompting the Pakistan Navy to initiate “Operation Madad” to aid affected communities. This article was published 10 years ago. Heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread flooding, submerging villages, damaging infrastructure, and displacing thousands. The Pakistan Navy’s relief efforts aim to provide emergency assistance to flood-hit areas, focusing on both immediate rescue and longer-term relief operations.
“In the worst-affected areas, entire villages were washed away without warning by walls of flood water,” it said in a statement, noting that thousands of people “have lost everything.” Up to 100,000 households need help, said the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (ICRC).
Severe Flooding and Humanitarian Crisis
The floods in Pakistan began in late July 2010, resulting from heavy monsoon rains in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab and, Balochistan regions of Pakistan, which affected the Indus River basin. Approximately one-fifth of Pakistan’s total land area was affected by floods, large swathes of agricultural land under water. The Sindh region, including low-lying areas of Karachi, Hyderabad, and Thatta, has been particularly hard-hit. The floods have led to substantial losses in crops, livestock, and essential infrastructure. In response, the Pakistan Navy, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local government agencies, launched “Operation Madad,” a comprehensive rescue and relief initiative designed to address the urgent needs of affected communities.
“Operation Madad”
The Pakistan Navy has deployed specialized search and rescue teams, equipped with boats, medical supplies, and essential provisions; to assist stranded families and evacuate them to safer areas, it was a Lifeline for Flood Victims following the 2010 Pakistan floods. Operation Madad was a non-combative and assistance military operation commenced and executed by Pakistan Navy after the massive national floods hit the country. “Operation Madad” continued about 8 months, June 4, 2010 to February 2011 which includes the deployment of helicopters, which are transporting essential goods like food, water, and medical supplies to inaccessible regions. Additionally, Navy personnel are providing immediate medical assistance to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases, which have become a significant concern in flooded areas.
Commander of the Pakistan Navy, emphasized the Navy’s commitment to supporting the nation during this disaster. “Our primary objective is to provide relief and safety to our fellow citizens in Sindh. The Pakistan Navy will continue to conduct rescue and relief operations as long as the need persists”. The operation was not in Sindh only, relief efforts was done in Baluchistan too.
Relief Measures
Up to 2.5 million people across Pakistan have been affected by heavy flooding brought on by torrential monsoon rains, the International Red Cross said. The Navy’s relief camps are equipped to provide shelter, food, and sanitation facilities to displaced families, helping them cope with the harsh conditions. The Pakistan Navy has established mobile medical teams to address health concerns and distribute essential medicines, particularly in regions facing potential disease outbreaks due to contaminated water sources.
Public Support
In coordination with local authorities, the Pakistan Navy aims to ensure that relief is delivered effectively and efficiently across Sindh, and that immediate needs are met as water levels gradually subside.
As floodwaters continue to pose challenges across Sindh, “Operation Madad” serves as a vital relief initiative, reaffirming the Pakistan Navy’s role in humanitarian aid. The operation is expected to remain active for the coming weeks, with ongoing assessments to determine additional support needed in flood-hit areas.