Millions of people have been displaced; they are passing their inclement days and chilly nights under the open skies; rain and flood water has become stagnant and breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Nothing has been done for the displaced people, their health is damaged; sanitation, clean water supply, housing, and agriculture have been compromised. There is increase in malnutrition and communicable diseases. There is a complete health crisis in the worst affected areas in the aftermath of disasters.

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and other relevant organisations are not doing enough - better to say these are not visible in many affected areas in the province.

While visiting different districts such as Shikarpur, Kashmor/Kandh Kot, Kambar/Shahdad Kot and Dadu recently I heard about the alarming increase in the incidence of diarrhea, malaria, respiratory infections, measles, and other communicable diseases. Following measures should be taken immediately.

First, rain triggered flood waters must be drained out from the affected areas. Second, a good system of water supply and excreta disposal must be put in place quickly. Third, the provision of adequate clean water and sanitation, timely measles immunisation, simple treatment of dehydration from diarrhoea, supplementary feeding for the malnourished, micronutrient supplements, and the establishment of an adequate public health surveillance system greatly reduces the health risks associated with the harsh environments of torn –out tents.

Above all, the officers of the relevant national and provincial organisations may be directed not to waste resources in non-productive activities such as briefings on power points and photo sessions but do utilise the resources honestly.

HASHIM ABRO Islamabad