Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure severely damaged by floods
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure has suffered major damage in the wake of recent nationwide floods, leaving vulnerable communities with limited access to medical services.
According to a report submitted to the federal government, nearly 120 health facilities have been affected countrywide. Out of these, 104 centers sustained damage — with 7 completely destroyed and 97 partially impacted.
Worst-hit regions
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Sindh, and Gilgit-Baltistan were identified as the hardest hit.
- KP: Three health centers completely demolished
- Sindh: Two health facilities destroyed and 25 partially damaged
- Gilgit-Baltistan: Two centers reduced to rubble, five partially impacted
- Punjab: 12 facilities damaged
Officials reported that the 97 partially damaged health facilities have already been restored, allowing continuity of basic healthcare services. However, areas where entire buildings were washed away continue to face severe challenges in accessing essential medical care.
Impact on lady health workers
The floods also destroyed the homes of many frontline health workers. In KP alone, 60 residences of lady health workers were affected — 32 completely destroyed and 28 partially damaged — creating further disruptions in community-level health outreach and vaccination programs.
Call for urgent rebuilding
Authorities have stressed that reconstruction of the destroyed health infrastructure is a top priority. Public health experts warn that any delay in rebuilding efforts may worsen the health crisis in flood-affected regions, leaving millions at risk of preventable diseases and maternal and child health complications.
“Restoring health facilities is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about saving lives,” a senior health official said.
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