After the intense heatwave monsoon spell is entering in Pakistan from the month of July. This is the relief for the thirsty land but predictions related to floods and extraordinary rain demand precautionary measures as well. According to Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) this year will be marked with more rains than usual. Heavy rain spells will supplant the high temperature but may bring some challenges along with it. Some essential precautionary measures should be kept in mind to ensure safety during the monsoon season in Pakistan.
The basic necessity is to stay informed by keeping yourself align with the weather updates and alerts. First-aid supplies and medicines should be in reach and store important documents in plastic bags to evacuate in any emergency. For your home safety, repair your roof leaks and make sure the gutters and drains are clear for proper flow. Another safety measure is to use sandbags for preventing water entering inside the living space. This season also brings a lot of water-borne diseases with it like cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid, so drink boiled and clean water. Avoid accumulation of water in plant’s pots as clean water can also cause diseases. Try to use mosquito repellents and build your immune system strong by eating healthy and fresh fruits to prevent malaria and dengue attacks. Agriculturist should inform local farmers about taking steps before the season to prevent waterlogging, which can damage crops. Farmers should be vigilant about pests and plants’ diseases which may increase in the monsoon season. Floods and poor conditions of roads cause accidents and unavoidable conditions, so be aware of the roads conditions and try to travel only in need, especially during floods. Vehicle maintenance is also necessary to ensure your and your family’s safety, so keep all these points before starting a journey during rainy season. People need to cooperate with the local authorities in regard to ensure their own safety.
Beside this government need to make sure the maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, highways, sewerage systems to avoid any unfavorable conditions in the future. Emergency services, evacuation plans, should be established priorly in order to avoid any catastrophe or disaster from heavy rainfall. Every representative of the area should watch and provide solutions to the damage areas before the need of time. Similarly, it is a job of media to report those areas where construction or repairment is needed to take actions timely. Hospitals should raise awareness campaigns regarding the risks of waterborne diseases and the importance of hygiene during the monsoon season. Government should also ensure emergency shelters for people of the slum areas with essential and basic supplies. Power blockage is the common issue faced by the masses during monsoon rains, so government should maintain backup power systems, responsive team to hear electrical complaints, and electrical faults and issues should be solved immediately.
These precautionary measures can reduce the risk factor in the month of monsoon and ensure safe zone around you while at the same time enjoying the rainy season.
By : Dynamic Echo Times
