Unprecedented, deadly floods in Pakistan have submerged an area bigger than Colorado. Morning Edition spoke with the country's climate minister and a civilian volunteer about ongoing relief efforts.
In the meantime, many civilian volunteers are working on the frontlines to conduct rescue operations and deliver emergency relief.: Imran Lodhi, a climate activist and university teacher who led a group of students to deliver tents and food in Punjab province.
He spoke to host Steve Inskeep while perched on a rare and valuable bit of high ground: a levee between a flooded area and a rushing river."I see hundreds and thousands of people, helpless people. I see a complete blackout in this area," he says, describing his view."There is no electricity here, and there is no internet connectivity. People are trying to call for help. The water level has gone down a bit.
People are taking refuge on roads and islands to avoid the water, he says, but focused on getting their families to safety as opposed to packing belongings. Their biggest concern now is where their next meal will come from, and how to protect their loved ones — especially vulnerable children — fromThe government has tried to help, Lodi adds, but its response has been limited and"it seems like the crisis is beyond their capacity.
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