The federal government has announced major relief measures for flood-affected individuals, including the waiver of taxes on electricity bills. A special compensation package for farmers, aimed at covering crop and livestock losses, is also in development, Federal Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain confirmed.
Speaking to the media, Rana Tanveer said that taxes on electricity bills for flood victims will be immediately waived. This includes the removal of general sales tax (GST), fixed charges, and fuel price adjustment taxes in affected areas. Proposals are also under consideration to eliminate excise duty, income tax, retailer sales tax, and other additional charges on electricity bills.
“The federal government will provide relief on electricity bills, while provincial governments will waive land revenue taxes,” he added. He also assured that any excessive electricity bills already issued for flood-affected areas will be reviewed and corrected.
In addition, the minister revealed that a comprehensive farmer relief package will be introduced once surveys of affected areas are completed. These surveys, expected to finish within 7–10 days, will provide detailed data on crop and livestock losses.
Preliminary findings show crop losses ranging from 1% to 3% in most flood-hit regions, with the Gujranwala division experiencing the highest damage, up to 18% of crops destroyed. Rice crops were reported as the hardest hit during the floods.
Rana Tanveer emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting flood victims, stating, “We will provide maximum relief to those affected by the floods.”
