Pakistan Floods have struck both farmlands and industrial hubs, causing massive destruction not seen in decades. The disaster has damaged crops, disrupted factories, and put pressure on the country’s fragile economy.
Record monsoon rains since late June, worsened by dam releases from India, have submerged large areas of Punjab and Sindh. Officials warn the impact could surpass the 2022 floods, which covered a third of the country, because agriculture and manufacturing have both been hit hard this time.
Satellite images show at least 220,000 hectares of rice fields were flooded between early August and mid-September. In Punjab alone, 1.8 million acres of farmland were inundated, with about half of rice and 60% of cotton and maize destroyed. Losses may exceed 2.5 million acres, worth up to Rs1 trillion.
Vegetable losses are severe, with some districts losing more than 90% of produce. Experts fear this could threaten food security as Pakistan prepares to sow wheat, the nation’s staple crop. Fields still covered in mud may delay planting, increasing risks of shortages and higher prices.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal admitted the Pakistan Floods would set back GDP growth. The central bank estimates growth closer to 3.25%, down from earlier hopes of 4.2%. Prices of wheat, sugar, onions, and tomatoes have already surged, pushing inflation to a 26-month high.
Industrial hubs like Sialkot have also suffered. Cotton shortages are expected to hurt the textile sector, Pakistan’s biggest foreign exchange earner. Rice exporters warn of losing competitiveness against India as prices rise.
At least 1,006 people have died, while more than 2.5 million have been displaced. Economists caution that the government may be underestimating the full impact.
The IMF is set to review Pakistan’s fiscal needs in the coming week. Experts argue stronger international support will be essential as the Pakistan Floods continue to strain resources, food supplies, and economic recovery.
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