ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday unveiled an emergency relief package, including a waiver of August electricity bills for households in flood-hit areas, as the country grapples with widespread devastation from torrential monsoon rains.
In a televised address, Sharif acknowledged the scale of destruction, including loss of life, livestock, and property, and said the measure was aimed at easing the financial burden on affected families.
“This is not a favor, it’s their right,” Sharif said, confirming that all domestic electricity consumers in flood-affected areas will receive a one-month bill waiver.
He added that a comprehensive assessment is underway to determine the extent of losses suffered by agricultural, commercial, and industrial electricity consumers in the impacted regions. Collection of their August bills has been suspended, and further relief may follow based on the findings.
Sharif expressed solidarity with flood victims, especially the elderly, women, and families forced from their homes, calling the relief a “humble effort” by the government.
IMF monitoring flood damage
The announcement comes as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) also steps in to assess the impact of the flooding on Pakistan’s economy. On Saturday, Mahir Binici, the IMF’s Resident Representative in Pakistan, said the organization is evaluating the situation as part of its ongoing engagement with Islamabad.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Pakistan as they endure the devastating floods,” Binici said. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life.”
He noted that the next review mission under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) will provide an opportunity to discuss appropriate policy responses to support the flood-affected population and protect the most vulnerable.
In addition to the $7 billion EFF program, Pakistan has also secured approval for $1.4 billion in climate resilience funding under the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). However, disbursement is contingent on the successful completion of future EFF reviews.
The IMF emphasized that both the EFF and RSF frameworks are critical tools for ensuring economic and financial stability amid natural disasters.
