KARACHI – Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah has directed district coordination officers (DCOs) engaged in rehabilitation of the flood-affected areas to pay complete attention to solving the problems and grievances of the flood survivors in a befitting manner.
The chief minister issued these orders during a meeting held in connection with reviewing the rehabilitation measures for the flood-affected people. Chairing the meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, Shah said that complaints regarding food supply and other issues should be solved on priority basis until all grievances are addressed.
He said that the media has been highlighting many complaints of the flood survivors regarding food supply and treatment facilities, which have resulted in hardships for the flood-affected people. Taking notice of a reported incident, according to which a man had suffered 70 percent burn injuries when he set himself on fire, he said that the flood survivors, who are still in relief camps and protesting for food, shelter, treatment, seed and fertiliser, reflects badly on the government, particularly the district administration.
He warned the DCOs working in the flood-hit areas to improve their performance and handle the situation effectively so as to resolve the problems of the affected families. He said that some complaints had been received regarding the contract share of food being supplied to the flood survivors. Terming it as a serious crime, he warned the officials concerned that there should be no complaints against such efforts, whereas remarkable improvement is needed in their efforts until there are no more complaints.
He said that some DCOs are working hard and striving to redress the grievances of the flood-affected people, and the government appreciates their efforts. However, he warned, serious action would be taken against those who are negligent and irresponsible in performing their duties. He said that DCOs with the charge of district administrators could utilise funds for rehabilitation purposes and submit their bills for clearance from the government.
He said that the provincial government and the DCOs are accountable to the Centre and the people of the country. He issued orders for providing food or dry ration to the flood survivors, who are living in relief camps, by March until new crop is harvested.
He also directed the DCOs to look after and assist the flood-affected people during the time the rehabilitation work is under way. He said that he would visit the relief camps and the flood-hit areas to monitor the rehabilitation work.
