2010 and 2011 saw the worst floods in the history of Pakistan. In Sindh Province, the floods led to loss of life and also damaged standing crops, household and livestock food stocks, health, education and road infrastructure, houses, irrigation and drainage facilities and protected drinking water sources. This report presents the findings and recommendations for a PCMMA of the wheat straw critical market system in Badin, Ghotki and Sanghar Districts of Sindh. The study found that the wheat straw market system by and large has the capacity to meet the anticipated demand for straw during future floods. For the first month, it is recommended to implement in-kind distribution of fodder assistance to the affected population in Sanghar and Badin, and cash or vouchers to the affected population in Ghotki to enable them to purchase wheat straw directly. 3 to 5 months following the emergency, cash or vouchers can be phased-in to replace in-kind straw distributions. In addition, this study recommends considering the in-kind distribution of supplemental nutrition for livestock and assistance for green fodder crops, along with the following preparedness activities: improving straw storage mechanisms and practices at the household and retailer levels; planning for post-flood green fodder planting; and establishing supplier agreements with straw traders.
Report authors:
Gregory Matthews and Muzafar Hussain
