Pakistan: BWI extends humanitarian assistance to flood-affected workers’ communities

BWI trade union affiliates in Pakistan have extended emergency relief and humanitarian assistance to communities affected by massive floods in the country, which have been described by many as some of the worst in recent times. The unionists have distributed food supplies, drinking water, basic medicines, clothing and mosquito nets. The unionists have also assisted in the preparation of temporary shelters. 

As a global union, BWI has also extended solidarity support to the Pakistan Construction Federation (PCF) and the Bhatta Workers Federation (BWF) to facilitate relief efforts to affected communities, including workers’ families in the construction and brick kiln industry.

Since June 2022, close to 33 million Pakistanis have been affected by incessant rains and flooding across the country, with at least 1,136 people reportedly killed. A third of the country has been affected causing irreparable damage and displacement. Areas severely affected include Southwestern Baluchistan, Southern Sindh and parts of North Western of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and the Punjab province.

Pakistan’s Climate Minister described the crisis a “climate-induced humanitarian disaster of epic proportions,” with its effects expected to be felt for years to come. The Pakistani government estimated that the floods’ devastation amounted to about USD 10 billion, which it expects to contribute negatively to the country’s current economic crisis.