Decoding Interpersonal Communication Patterns among Climate Disaster Victims: A Case Study of 2024 Glacier Burst Floods in Kumrat Valley, Pakistan

Abstract

Aim of the Study: This study based on interpersonal communication patterns among the climate disaster victims during and after floods induced by glacier burst during 2024 in Kumrat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. It has examined the interpersonal interactions among the directly-affected (living downstream) and indirectly-affected people (living upstream) in the region. Methodology: The researchers adopted participant observation, a qualitative research method. The population of the study was glacier burst victims in Kumrat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The researchers adopted purposive sampling and approached the study sample in the localities of Kalkot, Doon Seri, and Thall villages in the Kumrat Valley. The researchers reached data saturation level after conducting semi-structured interviews of ten (10) individuals, who were directly affected by the glacier burst. Findings: The study findings reflected that the directly-affected people primarily communicated to each other to ensure their safety and survival, whereas indirectly-affected individuals utilized it to rescue victims and provide them shelter, food and medicine. Post-disaster communication strategies among both type of victims included stress mitigation and emotional support, and collective conscious for recovery efforts. Conclusion: The common patterns emphasized restoration of infrastructure, access to external markets, and fostering resilience through awareness on climate change and its mitigation. The study has also put forth its recommendations that include strengthening telecommunication infrastructure, localized early cautioning systems, communal training in emergency response, psychological wellbeing initiatives, and awareness campaigns on sustainable practices.