ISLAMABAD – Defense Minister Khawaja Asif addressed the National Assembly on Monday, saying that Pakistan is facing one of the worst flood disasters in its history.
He stressed that the floods are not just a natural calamity but largely a “man-made disaster.” He blamed encroachments, commercial construction, and illegal housing on waterways and riverbeds as the main reasons for massive losses.
“As rivers and natural passages were occupied with houses, hotels, and commercial structures, floodwater entered residential areas and caused destruction,” he said. He cited the example of heavy urban flooding in Sialkot due to blocked water channels.
Khawaja Asif also highlighted climate change as a global reality, adding that Pakistan must take urgent measures to save water. He said that while large projects like Bhasha, Diamer, and Mohmand dams will take years to complete, the country must immediately build small dams to reduce water wastage.
“Every year, floods cause billions in damages, yet there is no long-term solution. We cannot afford to politicize dams. National issues should never face division,” the minister told the assembly.
He further cautioned that building new dams may take 10 to 15 years, stressing the need for consensus and urgent planning.
