[DAWN] HOWEVER the state may want to spin it, in reality it is its neglect and ineptitude in taking long-term flood control measures that is responsible for the enormous loss of life and property in Punjab this monsoon.When the floodwater submerged hundreds of villages, the prime minister contended that a sudden and unexpected flood was responsible for the damage. The Chenab River's overflow may have been abrupt in Sialkot, but the floodwater took four to six days to travel from the north to the southern regions where it caused real havoc. What stopped the authorities from taking proactive measures in the high-risk southern districts?
Unlike earthquakes, floods can be forecast and managed. The problem is that even if our authorities become aware of a flooding river, they lack the capacity to meet the challenge. This is despite the fact that 17 floods have struck the country since 1950.
Almost every year, Sialkot district is hit by localised flooding in the nullahs. Not a single major project has been launched to restrict overflowing rivers from entering human settlements.