Floods in Pakistan
Heroes are born in special circumstances….”jab waqt hum ko aazmata hai …” I wish to write about some people whose deeds will Inshallah lift the spirits of this Pakistani nation who is used to getting sad news daily. A nation which has men like Imran Khan, Malik Riaz, Talat Hussain, Kashif Abbasi, Ibrar ul Haq Fakhr-e-Alam and countless silent hands helping them cannot be declared a failed state. These are a few people I am mentioning but believe me whole Pakistan has come together and their efforts will show the world how a poor country like us can manage a huge disaster.
Malik Riaz
Malik Riaz has announced to give $ 2 billion for flood effectees!!! Chairman Bahria Town, Malik Riaz Hussain announced the donation of 75% of all his assets for the relief and rehabilitation of flood victims.
Pakistan Observer further states “In an exclusive interview with CNN, Malik Riaz Hussain announced unprecedented amount of US$ 2 Billion to the cause of helping the flood victims and elaborated the severity of the calamity damaging the agriculture and economy of the country to the extent of 60 percent. When the anchor person of CNN reconfirmed whether Malik Riaz Hussain would donate US$ 2 billion he not. not. Only confirmed but went a step further saying “ ever more”. Chairman Bahria Town dwelled on the massive poverty the country is facing and the relevant social issues that arise out of it. billionaires of Pakistan to come forward and help their country. “If 140 rich Pakistanis come together and commit to alleviating poverty, then this grave national problem could be solved within days he said.”
“He said if approached Bahria Town will construct these houses on no profit basis. Infact he is ready to donate more from his pocket for this cause. He suggested a special team should be established to monitor funds utilization & quality of the houses being constructed. Speaking of Bahria Town’s ongoing efforts for the poor, Malik Riaz Hussain said his company presently provides 150 thousand free daily meals, free Healthcare to 80 thousand individuals, everyday. They are also providing them relief goods including tents, utensils, daily items etc. He said “And I am ready to spend my each every penny for this purpose, because if my people are out of food, out of houses, I cannot sleep.”
pukar
Imran Khan is one man who won our hearts and respect after winning the Cricket World cup and making Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital. Our cricket team never recovered from his lose. Now when Imran is calling people to come together and help the flood victims, there are few who doubt his credibility. He has joined hands with MRKF for helping flood victims by collecting donations in cash and kind. I heard on Geo tv that Pukar already collected 36 crore rupees! If you want to give donations or want to know how much is raised so far and how is it distributed then check www.imrankhanfoundation.org
Imran Khan said that funds would be distributed in a transparent way. He said the programme would devise short and long term strategies, adding that, in the short term, necessary items would be distributed among the flood victims, while the long-term strategy would focus on rehabilitation of the displaced people. The PTI chairman said that volunteers are being invited to assist in relief activities.
Talat hussain/Kashif Abbasi
Syed Talat Hussain of Aaj tv and Kashif Abbasi are two brave men who do not watch flood effected areas on tv like us BUT they go there to cover these news stories and meet people on ground. Talat Hussain seems to be the most serious and genuine man hosting a current affairs show on tv. You can check Aaj Relief for accurate information about where your donation is going and you can even see the recently updated bank statement of their joint account established for flood relief. Account details and recent shows are posted here. Talat Hussain/ Kashif Abbasi Account details for flood relief. Join hands with such young and vibrant people even if you do not have the money you can work as volunteers!
It’s true that we are living in a very challenging time but it doesn’t mean “wait for good time” and nothing participate for any relief and development activities in Pakistan. Change is needed and it would be possible through our self efforts. Students of Pakistan can play a big role to change the history of Pakistan by showing the unity on the issues of Pakistan.