Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed support for building new dams in the country but urged the federal government to immediately focus on flood relief and declare an agricultural emergency.
During his visit to the Sukkur Barrage in Sindh, Bilawal voiced concern over the worsening flood situation in Punjab, particularly in Multan, Kasur, and Jalalpur Pirwala, where thousands of people have been severely affected. He described the destruction as “heartbreaking,” noting that many families have lost their homes and livelihoods.
Criticizing the federal government for its delayed response, Bilawal said Punjab’s flood victims have been waiting for aid for over two weeks, while Sindh is comparatively better prepared. He called on the government to provide assistance through the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) across Punjab and Sindh, promising to raise the matter with the Prime Minister.
Warning residents of riverine areas to evacuate, he emphasized that climate change demands a policy overhaul. While reaffirming PPP’s support for new dams, he opposed controversial projects on the Indus River.
Bilawal also urged coordination between provincial governments, stressing that no single administration can tackle floods alone and collective efforts are vital to help victims and safeguard the country’s food security.