Hundreds of Homes Damaged as Severe Weather Triggers Collapses
PESHAWAR: At least 45 people have been killed and 105 others injured after torrential rains triggered a series of devastating roof and wall collapses across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), authorities reported on Sunday. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed the casualties, which occurred over a period starting March 25.
The human toll is particularly severe, with children accounting for a significant number of the victims. According to the PDMA’s latest report, the deceased include 23 children, 17 men, and five women. The 105 injured comprise 45 men, 16 women, and 44 children.
Widespread Destruction Across Multiple Districts
The relentless downpours have caused extensive property damage. A total of 442 houses have been impacted, with 60 completely destroyed and another 382 partially damaged. The disasters were reported across a vast swath of the province, affecting numerous districts.
The affected areas include:
- Bannu, Abbottabad, and Mardan
- Bajaur, Hangu, and Mohmand
- Kohat, North Waziristan, and Peshawar
- Khyber, Nowshera, and Dera Ismail Khan
- Kurram, Lakki Marwat, and Shangla
- Battagram, Lower Kohistan, and Mansehra
- Torghar, Swat, and Upper Dir
- Charsadda, Buner, and Malakand
- Lower Dir, Orakzai, South Waziristan, and Tank
Relief Operations Underway Amid New Weather Warning
The PDMA stated that it is coordinating relief activities with Rescue 1122, district administrations, and other relevant institutions. Aid supplies have been dispatched to the affected districts, and local authorities have been directed to accelerate relief efforts to ensure immediate assistance reaches victims.
Officials issued a stern warning regarding another anticipated spell of rain, forecasted from April 6 to 9. The public has been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly to sensitive tourist areas, and to adhere to official advisories.
The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains fully operational. Citizens have been advised to report emergencies or seek information via the toll-free helpline 1700.
