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Yearly Archives: 2025

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On April 30, 2025, Hunza Public School became a vibrant hub of intergenerational learning, as students and community elders came together with a shared commitment to climate awareness. In partnership with Community World Service Asia (CWSA), the school hosted a Climate Change Education & Awareness event that highlighted the transformative potential of youth activism and community-led engagement.

The event brought together students, teachers, and local leaders for a dynamic dialogue on environmental stewardship, glacier preservation, and sustainable living. Guests from Act Church of Sweden and Community World Service Asia (CWSA) joined the gathering, highlighting the transformative role of education in fostering climate-resilient communities.

A traditional welcome ceremony, rooted in the customs of Gilgit-Baltistan, honored the guests with pharsin, locally crafted caps worn by both men and women. The cultural exchange continued with folklore songs recounting the ancient legacy of the region’s glaciers, followed by a spirited dance performed jointly by elders and youth.

Students voiced their concerns with passion and clarity, speaking on the urgent threats of global warming, glacier retreat, and climate-induced disasters. Their discussions reflected not only the gravity of the challenges but also the ingenuity and commitment needed to overcome them.

“Our glaciers are vanishing faster than our leaders are acting. If we don’t push for clean energy and water conservation today, our children will inherit a barren land,” shared Farida, a Grade 8 student.

Naema, a Class 7 student, spoke with passion, “Climate change isn’t just science; it is our reality. Last year’s floods destroyed homes. We need schools to teach survival skills, not just theories.” Her words echoed the lived experiences of many in the region, underscoring the urgency of climate education rooted in real-world resilience.

The event featured a satirical play titled “Our Planet Earth,” in which extraterrestrial visitors confronted humanity for its environmental negligence. The performance concluded with a dramatic ultimatum: offer solutions or surrender the planet. The message was clear and compelling; the time to act is now.

Students also presented innovative scientific models focused on climate adaptation. From water filtration and slope stabilisation to rainwater harvesting, biodiversity conservation, and green school initiatives, their projects reflected both creativity and a deep commitment to sustainable living.

“Our students are well aware of climate change and its solutions. What they need is support and facilities to develop these ideas and emerge as future decision-makers,” highlighted Memoona, senior teacher and focal person at Hunza Public School.

“Our ancestors said glaciers and peaks are bound in eternal union. The mountains provide strength, the glaciers give water. Now this union is failing because we broke our covenant with nature. This is the time to act, by harnessing the power of youth through education and community support,” added Nazia Zafar, CWSA staff in Hunza, citing the wisdom of indigenous traditions.

A Pledge for a Sustainable Future

With CWSA’s continued commitment to climate education, students left the event not only informed but inspired, ready to champion sustainable practices, safeguard their glaciers, and lead transformative change within their communities.

The Earth’s future is in our hands — and the time to act is now.

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On July 3, 2025, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) organised a transformative Climate Change Learning Event titled ‘Climate Action in Gilgit Baltistan: Opportunities for a Resilient Future’ at Karakoram International University (KIU) in Gilgit, bringing together climate change experts, local stakeholders, and students to address the pressing challenges of climate change in Gilgit-Baltistan. The event, attended by a diverse audience, emphasised the urgent need for education, community-led solutions, and collaborative action to build resilience in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

Dr. Sajjad Ali, Associate Professor and Director of Academics at KIU, delivered the welcome address, urging young students to act. “It is a form of disrespect against nature to not take action towards climate change efforts,” he stated, highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability as one of the top 10 countries affected by climate change. He noted a critical barrier, “We are among the lowest to benefit from climate change funds due to a lack of education, awareness, and advocacy.” Dr. Ali proposed investing in youth education as a key solution to this global crisis.

Takashi Komino of the Asian Disaster Response and Reduction Network (ADRRN) emphasised the prevalence of floods and storms as the most frequent disasters in Asia. He advocated for community-led strategies, stating, “We need to turn technical science into people’s science, reaching communities in ways they understand.” Despite a brief internet disruption, his message resonated, underscoring the importance of accessible, community-driven approaches.

Khadim Hussain, Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the value of youth and indigenous knowledge. “We have faced numerous challenges, but we are still surviving. Together, we can take collective action,” he said, advocating for natural resource-based solutions and increased awareness efforts by NGOs.

Nishanie Jayamaha, a climate expert, stressed the need for community-aligned strategies. “We must constantly evaluate if our strategies are helping and working with communities. Misaligned approaches can cause harm,” she cautioned, urging organisations to prioritise community needs to avoid unintended consequences.

Dr Iftikhar Ali, Senator at KIU emphasised on active participation and contribution of local governments, he shared that “Local governments play a vital role in building climate-resilient and sustainable communities by implementing green policies, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring infrastructure can withstand climate impacts”.

Dr. Farasat Ali of World Wildlife Fund Pakistan shared alarming data, noting that climate change costs Pakistan $30 billion annually. He highlighted the risks posed by 33 of the 3,044 glacial lakes in northern Pakistan, classified as hazardous zones for extreme flooding, threatening lives and economic stability. “Increased water temperatures will also affect freshwater sources, impacting fishing and farming,” he added, emphasising the widespread impact across urban and rural communities.

Tabinda Jabeen from the Teacher Resource Center underscored the role of education in preparing Pakistan’s youth for a climate-challenged future. “Children and youth are our future. We must share knowledge and collaborate to equip them for the world we are leaving behind,” she said.

A KIU student studying climate change offered a compelling perspective, suggesting, “We should use local languages instead of English to educate communities and incorporate indigenous knowledge into community-based adaptation efforts for greater success.”

Dr. Shaukat Ali of KIU delivered a powerful closing statement: “Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is here, and it is very real.”

The event culminated in a significant milestone, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CWSA, and the Vice Chancellor of KIU, on behalf of the Gilgit-Baltistan government. This MoU formalises a commitment to collaborate on climate change education and resilience-building initiatives, marking a promising step for CWSA and the communities of northern Pakistan facing escalating climate challenges.

This event, supported by partnerships with KIU and other stakeholders, reflects CWSA’s dedication to fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and driving collective action to address climate change in Gilgit-Baltistan. By empowering youth, integrating indigenous knowledge, and strengthening local collaborations, CWSA continues to pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

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In the scenic valley of Golkin, Hunza, a powerful movement has taken root; one that blends environmental stewardship with a celebration of women’s roles in community resilience. Launched in collaboration with the Forest Department of Gilgit Baltistan, the “One Daughter, One Tree” (Aik Bete, Aik Shajar) plantation drive marks a significant step in combating climate change through afforestation.

This initiative, supported by Community World Service Asia’s Climate Education and Awareness Program and funded by Week of Compassion, goes beyond tree planting. It is a tribute to daughters, mothers, and grandmothers, honouring their contributions while fostering environmental consciousness among students and local communities.

As Gulnaaz, a woman farmer from the region, shared, “We are planting hope. We are honouring nature. We are celebrating women and teaching our children to protect what sustains us.”

The urgency of this campaign is underscored by the increasing frequency of floods and glacier retreat in the region. A representative from the Forest Department emphasised the critical need for afforestation to safeguard Hunza’s fragile ecosystem and raise public awareness about sustainable practices.

This event is the first in a series of plantation drives planned across more than 25 public and private schools, engaging youth and communities in long-term climate adaptation efforts.

Among the young changemakers is Safina, a passionate student from Al Amin Model School in Gulmit, Gojal. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of glacier melt and flooding in her valley, Safina joined the plantation drive with a clear purpose; to contribute to a greener, more resilient future.

Her actions speak volumes. By planting trees and advocating for climate awareness, Safina is not only protecting her community but also inspiring her peers to take ownership of their environment. Her story is a testament to the power of individual action in addressing global challenges.

As Hunza’s youth and elders unite under the banner of climate resilience, CWSA remains committed to supporting locally led solutions that protect both people and the planet. Together, these efforts are sowing the seeds of sustainability—one daughter, one tree at a time.

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Photo credits: The Guardian

Crisis Overview

Pakistan is facing one of its deadliest monsoon seasons in recent history. Since late June, relentless rains have triggered flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). Over 650 lives have been lost, with 351 deaths reported in KP alone in the past 72 hours. Entire villages have been swept away, infrastructure crippled, and thousands displaced.

The situation is particularly dire in KP’s Buner district, where 204 fatalities have been confirmed and entire communities have been obliterated. In GB, GLOFs have destroyed roads and homes, isolating vulnerable populations and complicating relief efforts.

Key Risks & Impact Highlights

SectorImpact
Lives & Injuries657 deaths, 929 injuries nationwide; KP worst affected
Shelter2,462 homes damaged; mass displacement in KP, GB, and AJK
Infrastructure152 bridges destroyed; major road closures including Karakoram Highway
LivelihoodsCrop and livestock losses; economic devastation in rural districts
HealthRising cases of trauma, waterborne diseases, and mental health distress
ProtectionHeightened risks of GBV, exploitation, and early marriage in displacement settings

Immediate Humanitarian Needs

  • Search & Rescue Operations in landslide-prone and inaccessible areas
  • Emergency Shelter & NFIs including tents, blankets, lighting, and kitchen sets
  • Safe Drinking Water & Hygiene Kits to prevent disease outbreaks
  • Mobile Health Services for trauma, maternal care, and psychosocial support
  • Food Assistance & Cash Support for families cut off from supply routes
  • Debris Clearance & Road Access Restoration to reopen relief corridors
  • Protection Services for women, children, elderly, and persons with disabilities
  • Early Warning Systems & Community Alerts for continued rainfall and GLOF threats

Community World Service Asia (CWSA) Response & Preparedness

Community World Service Asia has launched emergency relief operations in Hunza and Nagar districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, which are among the most remote, and hard to reach areas of Northern Pakistan. Hunza and Nagar are nestled within the Karakoram Range, and are surrounded by some of the highest Karakoram peaks like Rakaposhi, Golden Peak, and Ultar. These districts are most affected by recent climate change impacts, despite zero contribution to emissions. CWSA is distributing Emergency Relief Kits to 150 families in these two districts. These kits include food items, first aid, and hygiene supplies tailored to restore dignity and safety.

CWSA is coordinating closely with NDMA, PDMAs, and local partners and intends to scale its emergency response activities in areas where it already has a strong field presence, while retaining the flexibility to expand operations as the crisis develops. Built on existing local networks and partnerships, the response will remain adaptive, inclusive, and community-driven. Our approach prioritises:

  • Mobile Health Units for emergency care and psychosocial support
  • Temporary Shelters for families who have lost their homes
  • Protection-Focused Spaces for women and children
  • Gender-Responsive Programming across all sectors
  • Multipurpose Cash Assistance & In-Kind Support
  • Community Engagement & Accountability Mechanisms

Call to Action

Community World Service Asia urges humanitarian partners, donors, and media to amplify the voices of affected communities and support a coordinated, dignified response. The scale of devastation demands urgent action to prevent further loss of life and restore hope for thousands.

Contacts:

Shama Mall
Deputy Regional Director
Programs & Organisational Development
Email: shama.mall@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

PalwashayArbab
Head of Communication
Email: palwashay.arbab@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

References

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Parsan Kohli, a bright and articulate young woman from the village of Cheel Band, stands out for her clarity of thought and speech, particularly in Urdu—a language she proudly says she learned from her schoolteacher father. At twenty-five years old, she has already been married for a decade and is the mother of four children. In a community where having eight to ten children is the norm, her decision to limit the size of her family is notably uncommon.

Smiling, she shares that her husband, Moolchand, is one of fifteen siblings, while gesturing towards her mother-in-law who they live together with. “For all the hard work that woman has done, she looks wonderfully unscarred,” she remarks. With a large family to support, it is unsurprising that Moolchand never had the opportunity to pursue an education and now works as a bricklayer.

What sets Parsan apart is not just her decision to raise a smaller family, but the reasons behind it. As an active member of the Village Management Committee (VMC), established in 2022 under Community World Service Asia (CWSA) and Act for Peace’s(AfP) Health and Education project, Parsan has gained new perspectives on health, personal care, and family well-being. She reflects that, prior to her involvement with the VMC, she had limited understanding of basic hygiene and health issues. Like many others, she once believed that having more children was a way to secure the future. However, she now recognises that larger families often deepen the cycle of poverty. With this knowledge that she gained through the Health and Education Sessions held through the course of this project, she has become a vocal advocate for informed family planning within her village.

“But I had to begin with my own household,” she says. “I had to set an example before encouraging others to follow.” She recalls that it was once common in her village for women with infants as young as six or nine months to be pregnant again. Over the past two years, however, Parsan has played a key role in shifting this norm. She has supported nearly every woman in her para (neighbourhood) in adopting healthier spacing between children. The long-standing tradition of frequent, back-to-back pregnancies is now largely fading.

Her efforts particularly focus on newly married young women, to whom she gently explains the importance of waiting before expanding their families. Though she has not kept exact figures, Parsan believes at least thirty women have embraced her message, with ten of them committing to having smaller families. “They understand now that large families perpetuate poverty,” she says.

During her most recent pregnancy, Parsan experienced unusual discomfort. Remembering the health guidance sessions conducted by CWSA staff through the VMC, she visited the local Health Unit for a check-up. There, she discovered that her haemoglobin level had dropped to eight. She received treatment in time and went on to deliver a healthy baby. “Had I not attended those sessions, I would never have known. Who knows what could have happened,” she reflects.

Parsan sees her most significant achievement as her success in promoting girls’ education. Just two years ago, only twelve girls in her community were enrolled in school; today, that number has risen to thirty-five. Some of these girls are ten years old and only now entering grade one, underscoring how delayed school enrolment had become. She explains that girls’ education was often seen as unnecessary, with daughters expected to assist with domestic tasks. Even boys were sometimes kept home to fetch water while the older men idled. Going door to door, Parsan urged mothers to send their children to school, stressing that government schools do not charge tuition. “Your only expense is a few rupees for notebooks and pencils once every few months,” she told them.

Gradually, the number of enrolled children began to grow. With children now in school, Parsan notes that men have become responsible for fetching water, something that was once seen as children’s work.

The school in her neighbourhood, which serves approximately 200 households, now has four teachers. Two are funded by CWSA & AfP, one by the local community, and one by the government. Previously, families would often cite a lack of teachers as a reason not to send their children to school. That barrier, Parsan says with satisfaction, has now been removed.

Parsan is also deeply committed to preventing early marriage. “Fourteen is the usual age for marriage here, I myself was only fifteen,” she shares. Recently, she managed to delay the wedding of a sixteen-year-old girl through community engagement. The parents have now agreed to wait until their daughter turns eighteen. With so many accomplishments, what lies ahead for Parsan? She simply says she will continue. “Children are being born who need to be educated, and they must not marry until they are of legal age. I have to ensure that the right thing is done, that they stay in school and don’t marry before eighteen.”

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Married at the age of 17, Lakshmi assumed the weight of household responsibilities early in life. With her husband, Laalu, working as a labourer in the city to support the family, Lakshmi remained the steady anchor at home. Together, they raised four young children, three sons and a daughter, all between the ages of five and ten. Despite limited resources and daily challenges, Lakshmi nurtured a modest but fulfilling life, grounded in resilience and the warmth of her family.

Five years ago, Lakshmi’s world was turned upside down when her husband, Laalu, tragically passed away after a snake bite. Fate did not give her a chance to fully grieve the loss of her partner. Overnight, she became the sole caregiver and breadwinner for their young children, forced to navigate an uncertain and demanding future entirely on her own.

Now 32, Lakshmi continues to shoulder the full responsibility of raising her family. To survive, she and her children work together as labourers in fields of Village Lakho Kolhi, striving each day to meet their most basic needs.

In 2021, driven by quiet determination, Lakshmi took a bold step to improve her family’s future by breeding two goats, establishing a modest but stable source of income. It was a turning point that promised a path toward self-reliance. However, less than a year later, the catastrophic floods of 2022 swept across Pakistan, displacing thousands and claiming countless lives and livestock.

Lachmi’s village, Lakho Kolhi in Umerkot, was among the hardest hit. The deluge reduced homes to rubble and left the community submerged in devastation, erasing what little security they had built. Lakshmi and her family lost their most treasured possession, their home, and faced a heartbreaking reality. The destruction was so extensive that rebuilding was impossible. With no other option, they were forced to flee and start over, carrying with them only resilience and the will to endure.

With nowhere to go, Lachmi and her children found themselves in her brother-in-law’s house, who himself had relocated to village Anwar Pathan with his family in search of safer grounds. In a time when everyone around them was grappling with uncertainty and hardship, his support was both rare and deeply meaningful. Within that borrowed shelter, Lakshmi tried to rebuild a sense of home for her children, even as daily survival weighed heavily on her mind. The question of how to feed her family was a constant worry, one that echoed the broader struggle shared by countless families, especially single mothers, facing the aftermath of displacement.

Living in someone else’s home brought a host of challenges for Lachmi, from compromised dignity to concerns over safety and protection. She endured mistreatment and a lack of respect from the household members, all while carrying the weight of worry for her children’s well-being.

In the aftermath of the devastating floods, Community World Service Asia (CWSA), in partnership with Presbyterian World Service & Development (PWS&D) and the Canadian Food grains Bank (CFGB), launched a Cash for Food initiative aimed at restoring dignity and choice to families like Lakshmi’s. The program provided unconditional cash assistance of PKR 20,000 per month for three months, March, May, and June 2025, empowering flood-affected households to address their food security based on their specific needs. 

With the first installment, Lachmi prioritised her family’s stability. She spent PKR 10,000 (USD 35) to buy wheat flour, to ensure a reliable supply of food in the weeks ahead. Another PKR 6,000 (USD 21) went toward repaying a debt she had incurred just to feed her children, a financial weight she had long carried.  The remaining PKR 4,000 ( USD 14), was carefully allocated to purchasing sugar, rice, and vegetables, allowing her to provide balanced nutrition with renewed peace of mind. In a move that reflected both vision and resilience, Lakshmi used the second installment to purchase two young goats, an investment in future sustainability. As the goats grow, she plans to sell their milk locally, establishing a modest yet dependable source of income for her household..

With the third and final cash installment, Lakshmi embraced a moment of joy amidst hardship. She lovingly chose new clothes for her children, spending nearly PKR 5,000 ( USD 18) on new clothes for them to bring smiles and a sense of normalcy to their lives. The remaining PKR 15,000 (USD 53) was set aside to secure their food supply, a deliberate decision rooted in maternal foresight. “Even if we have nothing else,” Lakshmi shared, “we should have wheat in the cabinets, so we never go to bed hungry.”

Lachmi has courageously shared her journey with others, inspiring many through her resilience and determination. “Now we’re finding new ways to support our families,” she said. “Many women in our village have stepped up to help, especially after losing their livelihoods.”

Part of the funds also went toward purchasing medicine for her seven-year-old Gulji, who lives with epilepsy. Reflecting on how she used the assistance, Lachmi said, “The aid is temporary, and the money is meant to end someday. To truly benefit from it, I had to invest it with purpose.”

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As climate extremes intensify across Pakistan, vulnerable communities are bearing the brunt of rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and environmental degradation. This short video captures firsthand reflections from local residents and civil society on how climate change is reshaping their lives, livelihoods, and landscapes. Produced by Community World Service Asia & Leigh Larson, Week of Compassion, the film amplifies voices from the frontlines, calling for urgent, inclusive action to build resilience and protect those most at risk.

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Training Women in Livestock Management

Nestled in the sun-scorched plains of Thar, the modest home of Dhuri stands as a testament to resilience and familial devotion. Within its humble walls, Dhuri, her husband Mangal, and their three children weave a life rich with love and mutual support. Yet, the unforgiving climate casts a shadow over their days, bringing extreme environmental challenges that severely limit their opportunities for sustenance. With resources scarce, Dhuri and Mangal take turns toiling as daily wage crop farmers.

Dhuri was chosen as a participant in a transformative humanitarian initiative spearheaded by Community World Service Asia and Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe (DKH), where she received a comprehensive package
of support designed to uplift her family’s prospects. This assistance encompassed cash grants, a hydroponic kit, premium seeds for crop cultivation, nourishing animal fodder for her livestock, and most crucially, expert training to nurture and sustain these vital resources with confidence and skill.

Dhuri, along with a group of women selected under the project, learned a useful new skill through their training: crafting mineral blocks to nourish their cows.

These hand-shaped treats, made with a simple blend of water, salt, jaggery, cement, urea, and wheat chaff, quickly became a favourite among the cows, who eagerly lap them up without hesitation.

Since applying this knowledge, Dhuri has felt a remarkable difference in caring for her cattle. She lovingly
creates what she affectionately calls “Sheera blocks,” designed to boost her livestock’s gastrointestinal health.

Dhuri reflects that, before this experience, she had never encountered any training or practice that brought such valuable awareness. Yet, since applying these new insights, she has observed a noticeable and heartening change in her daily efforts. “The cattle used to have many gut problems before, but now we don’t see any of them”, Dhuri recalls. “There is actually substantial improvement. They produce more milk, and it’s much cleaner too”.

Dhuri feels happy about the minimal effort and cost it requires to make the mineral blocks. She says that, as beneficial as they are, they are extremely economical. As a dedicated sharecropper, Dhuriwas overjoyed to harvest PKR 70,000(246 USD) from her cultivated fields, a clear sign of the support’s meaningful impact.

Dhuri’s children are her world. Unlike many parents who pull their children, especially daughters, out of school to ease the family’s workload, Dhuri stands firm with a heartfelt promise. “We’ve decided not to weigh our children down with life’s tough duties just yet. This age is for going to school and we want them to focus on that alone. When the moment is right, they’ll step into their roles with confidence.”

Going forward, Dhuri stated that she did not take this assistance for granted. “We are grateful for all the resources and wisdom shared with us,” she said with heartfelt gratitude. “We’re committed to proving we’re putting it to good use and showing the world how well we have honoured this generous help.”

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Overview of the Situation

Pakistan is currently experiencing intensified monsoon rainfall, consistent with forecasts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and alerts issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Since late June, above-normal precipitation has impacted Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and displacement.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, temperatures have reached an unprecedented 48.5°C, accelerating glacial melt across the Himalayas, Hindu Kush, and Karakoram ranges. This has significantly heightened the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), particularly in historically stable regions like Shakyote, where agricultural lands and homes have been swept away.

Sindh, in southern Pakistan, is currently experiencing a moderate to high-risk period, with urban flooding impacting major cities and a continued threat of rural flooding. While rainfall in Sindh has not been as intense as in Punjab or KPK, the province remains highly vulnerable due to poor drainage and overstretched infrastructure. Additionally, heavy rains in northern and central Pakistan can increase flood risks in Sindh through rising river levels, hill torrents, snowmelt, and GLOF events, even if Sindh itself receives only light rainfall. Local authorities have issued advisories to all relevant stakeholders to ensure preparedness.

Geographic Areas at Risk

Province/RegionKey Areas/Districts at Risk
SindhKhairpur, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Badin, Thatta, Hyderabad, Karachi
PunjabRajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Layyah, Multan, Bahawalpur
BalochistanLasbela, Jhal Magsi, Khuzdar, Sibi, Naseerabad
Khyber PakhtunkhwaSwat, Chitral, Dir, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Dera Ismail Khan
Gilgit-Baltistan & AJKHunza, Ghizer, Skardu, Muzaffarabad, Bagh
Urban CentersKarachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta

Humanitarian Impact (as of July 16, 2025)

  • 124 fatalities reported across five provinces
  • 264 injuries, primarily due to collapsed structures
  • 522 homes damaged, 126 livestock lost, and multiple roads and bridges destroyed
  • Thousands displaced, particularly in mountainous and flood-prone zones
  • Heightened vulnerability among women, children, and marginalised groups

Escalating Risks

  • Urban Flooding in major cities due to poor drainage
  • Flash Floods & Landslides in KPK, Punjab, GB, and Balochistan
  • Rural Inundation threatening food security in Sindh and southern Punjab
  • Waterborne Disease Outbreaks (cholera, malaria, dengue) due to stagnant water
  • Protection Concerns for displaced women, girls, and vulnerable communities
  • Recurring Disaster Zones still recovering from the 2022 super floods

Gendered & Inclusive Impact

Women, girls, and marginalised groups face disproportionate risks due to pre-existing inequalities. Displacement has disrupted access to maternal healthcare, education, and safe shelter. Overcrowded conditions and lack of gender-sensitive facilities increase exposure to gender-based violence and exploitation. Persons with disabilities, the elderly, and ethnic minorities face additional barriers to accessing relief.

Anticipated Needs

  • Emergency Shelter & Non-Food Items (NFIs)
  • WASH support (clean water, hygiene kits, sanitation)
  • Health services via mobile/static units
  • Food assistance (cash or in-kind)
  • Livelihood recovery for farmers and labourers
  • Protection services for vulnerable populations

CWSA Preparedness and Response

Community World Service Asia is actively coordinating with NDMA, PDMAs, and local partners to monitor the evolving crisis. Our response prioritises:

  • Gender-responsive programming across all sectors
  • Mobile health units for emergency care and psychosocial support
  • Protection-focused spaces for women and children
  • Emergency shelter and NFIs for displaced families
  • Cash-for-food assistance and in-kind distributions
  • Humanitarian Quality & Accountability mechanisms to ensure dignity and community engagement

Our multidisciplinary teams are ready to deploy in active field areas, with flexibility to expand operations as needed. CWSA will initiate its emergency operations in regions where we maintain an active presence and will scale up as needed, ensuring that our response is coordinated, adaptive, and rooted in local partnerships.

Rapid Response Fund Appeal

To enable swift, life-saving assistance, CWSA is establishing a Rapid Response Fund (RRF). We call on our partners to support this fund and strengthen our collective ability to respond efficiently and equitably, within 24 hours of the emergency. Together, we can act before the storm becomes catastrophe.

The 2025 monsoon and GLOF crisis underscores the urgent need for climate-resilient, people-centered humanitarian strategies. Without inclusive and sustained efforts, future disasters will continue to deepen inequalities and reverse development gains. CWSA remains committed to protecting lives, restoring dignity, and building resilience across Pakistan’s most vulnerable communities.

Contacts:

Shama Mall
Deputy Regional Director
Programs & Organisational Development
Email: shama.mall@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

Palwashay Arbab
Head of Communication 
Email: palwashay.arbab@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

References

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