Flood Resilience in Pakistan Citizen Engagement, Government Initiatives, and Sustainable Development

Abstract

This thesis analyses the impact of climate change, coupled with inadequate disaster management, on the rising frequency and severity of floods in Pakistan. The thesis focuses on the causes, socioeconomic impact, and government responses to floods by examining the interaction of natural and human elements. Due to the complexity of the research question, we have applied a multidisciplinary approach. The research draws on empirical climate data, community interviews, and policy analysis to propose a comprehensive strategy for effective flood mitigation in Pakistan. The climate data analysis from Punjab province shows that rainfall is not the only cause of the floods; rather, it is accompanied by other factors like poor infrastructure, glacial melting, and upstream flow of water in the rivers. Citizen interviews highlight the severe social and economic repercussions of floods, including displacement, health risks, educational disruption, and agricultural loss. Women and children, in particular, face additional challenges, aggravated by cultural and economic constraints. The government’s response, though well-intentioned, is often criticised for inadequate infrastructure, weak policy enforcement, and lack of public awareness campaigns. The thesis findings highlight the need for a comprehensive flood management strategy. Stricter land-use regulations, the development of early warning systems, raising public awareness, and the improvement of infrastructure like dams and drainage systems are among the recommendations. Additionally, community-led initiatives and international collaborations are fundamental for building resilience. This study concludes that a multi-layered approach combining structural, policy-based, and community-centred strategies is vital for mitigating flood risks and adopting sustainable development in Pakistan.