As Assessment Of Socio-Economic Vulnerability In Flood-Prone Region Of South Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Numerous natural disasters may occur in Pakistan, but recurring floods are the most frequent and result in significant loss of life and other property. Due to its geographic position, South Punjab especially has endured severe floods during the last ten years. Poor socioeconomic conditions among residents exacerbate the already present risks. Therefore, it was necessary to evaluate the socioeconomic vulnerability that flood-prone region people now experience and to pinpoint any possible risk factors. Dera Ghazi Khan District was chosen for this project due to its riverbank position and previous history of severe floods. Utilizing a multistage selection approach, 240 respondents were selected from the flood-affected regions and subjected to structured questionnaire interview questions. A Composite Index was developed to reflect respondents' vulnerabilities. The survey's results showed that 22.1% of respondents were very susceptible to flooding, while a staggering 57.6% of respondents were just moderately exposed. Family income, land ownership, home style, early warning, and access to a vehicle are just a few of the essential variables that determine how vulnerable a family is. It was determined that the study region had a high incidence of socioeconomic vulnerability and that a significant number of moderately susceptible persons were on the verge of falling into the highly vulnerable category in the event of a future flood. The research advised that the government act quickly to assist these vulnerable populations in South Punjab after consulting with all relevant parties.