UNICEF Pakistan officials visited flood-affected districts of Muzaffargarh and Multan to meet families returning to damaged homes and to assess urgent needs for children and communities. During the visit, Deputy Representative Sharmeela Rasool and Chief of Field Operations and Emergencies Scott Whoolery witnessed the scale of destruction and heard firsthand accounts from residents trying to rebuild their lives.
Stagnant floodwaters have driven a surge in waterborne and vector-borne diseases, putting children at heightened risk across south Punjab. Local health concerns are rising as communities contend with contaminated water and limited sanitation options, increasing the urgency of flood recovery work on the ground.
In coordination with the Government of Punjab and partner organisations, UNICEF is restoring access to safe water, installing temporary latrines and establishing child-friendly safe spaces where children can play, learn and begin to heal. Teams are also setting up Temporary Learning Centres so children can continue their education while schools are repaired or rebuilt, ensuring that recovery efforts include both health and learning needs.
Officials stressed that while immediate interventions are underway, much more support is required to help every child and family recover and rebuild their future. Collective action by government, aid partners and local communities is essential to sustain flood recovery efforts and reduce the long-term risks facing children in Muzaffargarh and Multan.
