The federal government has promised to rehabilitate every eligible family in Balochistan affected by the 2022 floods by December 2026, the Ministry of Planning and Development said on Wednesday.
The commitment covers all districts of Balochistan hit by the worst floods in the province’s history, including Quetta, Gwadar, Lasbela, Killa Abdullah, and Zhob. The ministry said the rehabilitation process is now in its final phase, with Rs 45 billion already released for cash grants, housing, and infrastructure repairs.
- Target families: Every eligible household listed in the 2022 flood-affected database
- Total budget: Rs 45 billion approved for rehabilitation
- Deadline: Full rehabilitation by 31 December 2026
- Where to check: Online portal at rehab.pnd.gov.pk
What has been done so far?
The ministry confirmed that over 35,000 families have already received cash grants of Rs 100,000 each under the first phase of the rehabilitation program. Another 20,000 families are in the process of receiving their payments, with disbursements expected by 30 June 2024.
Housing reconstruction is also underway in 12 priority districts, with 5,000 homes already completed. The government has allocated Rs 12 billion specifically for housing repairs and new constructions, targeting low-income families most affected by the floods.
Infrastructure repairs include 300 km of damaged roads and 150 bridges that have been rebuilt or repaired, improving access to remote areas like Zhob and Killa Abdullah. The ministry said these repairs are critical for restoring livelihoods, as many residents rely on agriculture and small businesses.
Who is eligible and how to apply?
Eligibility is based on the 2022 flood-affected database maintained by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). If your family was registered during the floods, you should automatically qualify for rehabilitation support. However, the ministry has opened a one-time correction window for families that may have been missed.
To check your status or update your information:
- Visit rehab.pnd.gov.pk
- Enter your CNIC number and flood-affected district
- If eligible, you’ll see your payment status or next steps
For those without internet access, district rehabilitation offices in Quetta, Gwadar, and Lasbela are accepting walk-in applications. Bring your CNIC, flood registration slip (if available), and proof of residence.
What’s next for flood-hit families?
The ministry has outlined a three-phase rehabilitation plan:
- Cash grants (2023-2024): Rs 100,000 per family for immediate needs
- Housing reconstruction (2024-2025): Rs 12 billion for home repairs and new builds
- Livelihood restoration (2025-2026): Loans and skill training for small businesses
Families in Gwadar and Lasbela will receive priority for housing reconstruction due to severe damage to coastal infrastructure. The government has also partnered with Habib Bank Limited (HBL) to disburse cash grants directly to beneficiaries’ accounts, ensuring transparency.
What critics and activists say
While the government’s commitment is welcome, activists in Balochistan have raised concerns about delays in disbursements and lack of awareness among affected families. "Many families in Zhob and Killa Abdullah still don’t know how to check their status or apply for aid," said a local NGO worker who requested anonymity.
The Balochistan Disaster Management Authority (BDMA) has been criticized for slow coordination with federal agencies. However, the ministry insists that 90% of the rehabilitation work is on track, with the remaining 10% expected to be completed by June 2025.
What you should do now
If you or someone you know was affected by the 2022 floods in Balochistan:
- Check your status online at rehab.pnd.gov.pk
- Visit your nearest district rehabilitation office if you need help applying
- Keep your CNIC and flood registration documents ready for verification
- Report delays or issues to the NDMA helpline at 1100
The government has set up mobile registration camps in remote areas like Chagai and Khuzdar to ensure no family is left out. These camps will operate until 31 March 2024.
Timeline at a glance
| Milestone | Date | Status |
|-----------|------|--------|
| Cash grants Phase 1 | June 2024 | 35,000 families paid |
| Housing reconstruction start | July 2024 | 5,000 homes completed |
| Correction window closes | 31 March 2024 | Open now |
| Full rehabilitation | 31 December 2026 | Target date |
The government’s promise of rehabilitation by 2026 is a lifeline for thousands of families still struggling to rebuild their lives. But speed and transparency will determine whether this plan delivers real relief or just another broken promise.
For updates, follow the Ministry of Planning and Development on Twitter/X or call the rehabilitation helpline at 0800-800-10.