This refers to the article, ‘The arc of climate justice’ (November 26) by Sherry Rehman. Disasters occur when a natural or manmade hazard reacts with human vulnerabilities. If people are well-prepared and have taken preventive measures, their dire effects can be avoided. In Pakistan, a large amount is spent on post-disaster events without realising that every $1 spent in the pre-disaster period is equal to $5 in the post-disaster period.
The frequency of natural hazards is increasing due to deforestation, the building of mega-development projects and unplanned urbanisation. These increase surface run-off and lessen the absorption of the natural ground. If these activities are kept in check, the people will be less vulnerable in the event of a disaster. The same is emphasised in the Hoyo Framework of Action, of which Pakistan is also a signatory. The irony is that those at the helm of affairs lack an awareness and understanding of this issue.
Lt-Col Asim bin Waheed
Lahore