Searing temperature and minimal rainfall in mid-2022 caused the worst condition of drought in Pakistan’s vast and isolated desert regions of Cholistan. Thousands of pastoralist families faced severe water scarcity and food crises for themselves and livestock across the Cholistan region. Aghosh Alkhidmat launched an emergency response and helped thousands of inhabitants by providing them with clean water, medical aid and Ration packages including flour, cooking oil, pulses, rice as well as water and fodder to livestock. In addition, three medical-cum-base camps were set up to provide relief in the region.
As one of the most vulnerable countries to the impacts of climate change, Pakistan has been facing the brunt of climate induced hazards. In the summer of 2022, the country experienced the largest amount of rainfall since 2019. Consequently, droughts in Cholistan desert along with floods across the country affected over 33 million people in 120 districts that caused devastation to lives, livelihoods, livestock and critical infrastructure in Pakistan. Alkhidmat teams responded to the challenge by carrying out integrated rescue and relief work in affected areas. The immediate step taken was the evacuation of stranded families to safe shelters. In addition to relief assistance in the form of food and non-food humanitarian supplies to all affected parts of the country, Alkhidmat volunteers also established tent villages, kitchens, medical camps, field hospitals, maternity centers, water filtration plants and temporary learning centers in affected areas.
