Islamabad / September 2, 2025 — In the midst of devastating floods across Pakistan’s Punjab province, where over 2 million people are affected and more than 800 lives have been lost, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif made a controversial statement urging citizens to treat the deluge as a “blessing” and store floodwater in tubs or containers at home. The misguided advice has triggered widespread criticism from both the public and opposition parties. The Times of IndiaAP News
A Tone-Deaf Response During a Humanitarian Crisis
During an interview with Dunya News, Mr. Asif stated:
“People who are protesting against the flood-like situation should take the flood waters home. People should store this water … We should look at this water as a blessing and hence should store it.” www.ndtv.com
He went on to propose a short-term solution, suggesting the construction of small dams that can be completed faster than mega projects, emphasizing Pakistan’s need to “store water instead of letting it go down the drain.” www.ndtv.comAaj English TV
Public Backlash and Political Fallout
As floods submerged over 1,000 villages and affected more than 2.4 million people, Asif’s comments were deemed insensitive and impractical—drawing sharp rebuke. One social media user remarked: “Only in #Terroristan can a bunch of stand-up comedians rebrand floods as a ‘Divine Gift.’” Republic WorldThe Daily Jagran
Opposition figures condemned the remarks as out-of-touch with the suffering of affected communities, insisting the focus should be on real infrastructure solutions rather than symbolic gestures. The Daily JagranAmar Ujala
The Flood Scenario: Pakistan’s Worst in Years
Triggered by heavy monsoon rains and water releases from India, the flooding has rapidly escalated into the worst crisis in decades:
- Over 1 million people evacuated from rural and urban areas.
- More than 854 fatalities reported since June.
- Disease outbreaks—such as diarrhea and skin infections—are mounting.
- Authorities and military have established 1,100 relief camps, yet access to food and healthcare remains uneven. AP NewsReuters
Broader Implications: Infrastructure and Climate Mismanagement
Asif acknowledged that human factors like unauthorized housing along river courses and environmental mismanagement have exacerbated the flood impact, calling it more of a man-made disaster than a natural calamity. He criticized political inaction, saying, “We beg for aid abroad but never confront our own failures.” Aaj English TVDawn
Key Points Summary
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Minister’s Statement | Urged citizens to store floodwater at home, calling it a “blessing.” |
| Public Reaction | Backlash for perceived insensitivity amid a life-threatening disaster. |
| Flood Severity | Millions impacted, hundreds dead, lack of aid for many victims. |
| Policy Focus | Emphasis on small dams and accountability, not just gifting relief. |
| Underlying Problems | Urban encroachment, poor planning, climate-driven disasters. |
