Khawaja Asif blames corruption, encroachments for recent flood destruction

SIALKOT (Dunya News) – Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has pointed to widespread corruption and illegal encroachments as the main reasons behind the collapse of roads and bridges during recent floods.

Talking to a private television channel, Asif stated that only 20 to 30 percent of the allocated funds are actually spent on development projects, while the rest are misappropriated by those involved in planning and construction.

He attributed the destruction in Sialkot to encroachments on natural water channels. Asif warned that the danger is not over yet, with further flood forecasts for Head Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad.

While acknowledging that India's intentions may be questionable, he emphasized that the sheer volume of water currently flowing is beyond anyone’s control.

The defence minister criticized decades of human interference with natural systems, saying, "We are paying the price for tampering with nature for the last two to three decades."

He argued that construction on natural waterways leads to disaster, and when such development occurs, it reflects the government's failure.

Khawaja Asif called for a collective national reflection, urging for a time when public money is fully spent on public welfare.

He also reiterated that the top priority for both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Punjab government is to ensure that every rupee of state funds contributes to national development.