Assessment of 2010 flood disaster causes and damages in district Muzaffargarh, Central Indus Basin, Pakistan

In this paper, we assessed 2010 flood-generating factors and extent of damages in one of the severely affected areas in the Central Indus Basin, Pakistan. This study is based on mixed research approach. Primary data were collected through a standard questionnaire using random sampling techniques, unstructured interviews, and field observations. Secondary data were acquired from concerned government departments. Descriptive statistical analysis and spatial analysis techniques were applied to explore 2010 flood disaster causes and damages. Analysis revealed that the flood was generated by the 4-day wet spell (27–30 July 2010) in headwaters zone of the Himalaya–Hindu Kush region, Pakistan. This rainstorm generated heavy discharge in the Indus River system. In several cases, river discharge exceeded the carrying capacity of dams and barrages, and as a consequence, many structures were damaged. In the study area, this heavy flow has left no choice for the flood dealing authorities, but to breach the left bank marginal embankment at RD 32–38 near Kot Addu. Overtopping of the flood on breached section has disrupted the entire area and incurred heavy losses to standing crops, livestock, and physical infrastructure. As a consequence, it has put heavy burden on local community and the country’s economy. The analysis further indicated that the total estimated economic loss caused by this imposed inundation was about 2.54 million US$. Infrastructure was the leading sector with maximum estimated economic loss of l.65 million US$ followed by the agricultural sector. This study will bring the attention of disaster management authorities to devise flood-risk reduction plan and identify suitable locations to be breach in emergency situation. This will reduce risk of flood in downstream areas, physical damages, and economic losses.