rebuilding initiative helps Pakistanis start over after floods

Approximately a year ago, relentless monsoons triggered unprecedented flooding and devastated parts of Pakistan, killing 1,700 people and leaving millions homeless.

For one widow and flood survivor who lost her home, a Chevron-sponsored initiative is literally opening doors. Months after her home was washed away, she was handed the keys to a new house.

She’s the first new homeowner but not the last. The March event, where the woman received her home, kicked off efforts to build more housing for displaced flood victims in the Sindh and Balochistan provinces.

“They suffered huge losses during the rains and floods and are really excited to be getting their houses back,” said Mohammad Muaab, a Chevron marketing specialist, who helped coordinate the initiative.

From June through October of 2022, nonstop flooding upended lives and displaced a staggering 33 million people. More than 1 million homes were destroyed.

Authorities estimate that the floods submerged more than one-third of the nation, ruining crops and killing farm animals that residents relied on.

Chevron’s $250,000 contribution toward rehousing efforts will help flood survivors rebuild.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, the Chevron Pakistan team witnessed people living in extreme conditions.

The 188 shelters that will be constructed through this program will offer flood victims progress.

“Helping them move into these shelters and contributing to a better way of living in the future is a small but significant step forward,” said Meher Patel, a Chevron Pakistan marketing coordinator, who participated in the rehousing initiative.

Chevron’s funding will also cover the planned installation of solar panels on the newly built homes in the province of Baluchistan. Prior to the floods, many people lacked access to electricity.

Construction on Sindh homes was completed in August; construction on Baluchistan homes is expected to be complete by late September.

“We are just trying to expedite as much as possible so that we can keep these children and families safe,” said Muaab.