Post Disaster Damages and Needs Assessment (PDNA): Needs for Building Back Initiative in Chitral after Erratic Rains and Extreme Events

Pakistan is one of the countries that is most vulnerable to extreme weather events caused and exacerbated by the climate change effects, such as the unprecedented rains and snowfall leading to devastating floods in 2022, 2023, and now again in April 2024. As we navigate through the ever-evolving landscape of climate change, we must pause to assess the impacts it has on our communities, infrastructure and environment. The post-disaster multisectoral needs assessment report presented here provides a crucial glimpse into the profound effects of climate change on the district of Chitral in 2024.

In 2024 mid-April  Chitral experienced unprecedented shifts in weather patterns, characterized by erratic rainfall, snowfall, landslides and devastating floods. These climatic anomalies that caused extensive damage to people's homes, public infrastructure, agriculture, and livestock that have not only disrupted the lives and livelihoods of the affected communities but also have underscored the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate. Experiencing unanticipated and unprecedented snowfall in mid-April serves as a clear indicator of climate change in the region. It is crucial to address vulnerability factors and strive for better reconstruction efforts to safeguard our people and their livelihoods.

From infrastructure, homes, and damage to agriculture, and livestock losses, the report delves into the multifaceted impacts of climate change, emphasizing the pressing need for tailored solutions to address the vulnerabilities exposed in the aftermath. It serves as a call to action for humanitarian organizations, donors, policymakers and stakeholders alike to prioritize resilience-building efforts and support the communities most affected by environmental crises.