Following the widespread devastation from ongoing floods, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to provide relief to the affectees. The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, has reviewed development and economic matters.

Recent monsoon rains, coupled with cloudbursts, have resulted in multiple instances of flash floods, claiming the lives of approximately 670 individuals. In light of the situation, the ECC has approved a relief package totalling Rs5.8 billion in support, with the Finance Division receiving directives to release Rs4 billion from the package immediately.

It merits a mention that the floods have also severely damaged key infrastructure. As per reports, the destruction caused by floodwater triggered a major internet outage from Tuesday night until early Wednesday morning, with connectivity dropping to nearly 20 percent of usual levels.

Moreover, the federal government may have to allocate additional funds to assist victims of the floods, as India has reportedly released additional water into the Sutlej River.