In the face of Cyclone Biparjoy's wrath, coastal villages are experiencing widespread dislocation as residents flee to seek safety and shelter. The devastating cyclone has left a trail of destruction, prompting a desperate exodus from vulnerable areas.

Residents of Rehri Goth and Keti Bandar have been particularly affected, as they grapple with the aftermath of the cyclone.

The plight of the local fishermen has worsened, exacerbating their existing economic hardships.

The situation is further compounded by the lack of government assistance reaching those in need.

Rehri Goth, a longstanding settlement of generations of fishermen in Karachi, now finds itself in the eye of the storm.

Even prior to the cyclone's arrival, the fishermen were already facing significant economic challenges. Meanwhile, fearing the destructive force of the cyclone, hundreds of people from Keti Bandar embarked on a treacherous journey, seeking refuge in the dwellings of Rehri Goth.

However, upon arrival, they were met with an overwhelming lack of basic provisions. Despite the Sindh government facilitating the transportation of affected people from Kati Bandar using six vehicles, crucial arrangements for accommodation, food, and bedding were neglected.

The burden of expenses fell upon the dislocated residents themselves, as they had to bear the cost of returning the vehicles.

The uncertainty of their future looms large, with concerns about sustenance, livelihoods, and the well-being of their families. A distressed woman among the affectees, Bashiran, shared her hardships with The Express Tribune, recounting her journey from Karachi to Keti Bandar in search of safety.

Struggling to secure even the most basic necessities, she questions the adequacy of additional assistance from the government. While the authorities covered transportation expenses, their support ended there, leaving the dislocated villagers grappling with an uncertain future and the harsh realities of survival.

A fisherman from Rehri, Akbar, expressed his frustration, highlighting the absence of government representatives offering relocation plans or financial aid.

He said that the livelihoods have been severely impacted, with the fishing industry coming to a standstill for over a week.

The fishermen find themselves alone in their struggle, devoid of any meaningful government assistance.

For centuries, these coastal communities have relied on the sea for their sustenance. However, due to restrictions by the government on fishing activities, unemployed fishermen are now forced to reside near the towns of Faqoon, seeking alternative means of survival. 

Their grievances towards the government have surpassed even the destructive force of the cyclone.

Another fisherman from Rehri Goth, Qasim said that no inquiries have been made about their well-being thus far from the government.

Even if the government were to intervene now, the fishermen are determined to remain in the area, urging the authorities to confront the reality of the situation.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 15^th, 2023.