Devastating Floods, Cloudbursts, and Torrential Rains Claim 340 Lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Hundreds Still Missing
By M.Ilyas Mullakhel
Peshawar – The seventh spell of this year’s monsoon has wreaked havoc across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, as torrential rains, flash floods, and cloudbursts have caused large scale devastation.According to the latest reports, nearly 340 people have lost their lives, while hundreds remain missing.Authorities fear that the death toll may continue to rise as rescue efforts are underway.
The provincial government has declared Buner, Bajaur, Mansehra, and Battagram as calamity hit districts, given the widespread destruction in these areas.Numerous villages have been completely wiped out, with Pir Baba in Buner identified as the worst-affected area, where dozens of settlements have been entirely flattened.Locals are desperately searching for their missing loved ones amid the debris.
Rescue operations are being carried out jointly by the Pakistan Army, Police, Rescue 1122, and various humanitarian organizations.These teams are working tirelessly to clear debris and provide emergency aid.A flood emergency has been imposed in Buner to facilitate rapid relief and rehabilitation measures.
In a tragic development, a government owned helicopter involved in relief efforts crashed due to bad weather, resulting in the martyrdom of five crew members, including two pilots.
The KP government has released an initial emergency relief fund of PKR 500 million (approx. USD 1.7 million) to support rescue and recovery efforts.Officials are currently assessing the total damage, but early estimates suggest historic losses.Numerous vehicles and infrastructure have also been swept away by the powerful floodwaters.
Water levels in the Kabul River have risen dangerously, with a discharge of 90,000 cusecs currently being recorded at Nowshera.While the river can withstand up to 240,000 cusecs, authorities warn that continued inflow could pose significant risks. Low-lying areas in Charsadda have been issued precautionary alerts to prepare for possible evacuations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the human and material losses in KP during a phone call with the Governor Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa.He assured that the federal government stands ready to provide all possible support during this crisis.
Authorities have appealed to the public to move to safer areas immediately and to avoid spreading or believing in rumors.Further updates are awaited as the situation continues to unfold.
