PESHAWAR: Torrential rains have unleashed devastation across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), killing at least 45 people and injuring 105 others since March 25, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The casualties, which include numerous children, resulted primarily from collapsing roofs and walls.
Children Among the Victims as Hundreds of Homes Damaged
The PDMA’s latest report, issued on Sunday, detailed a grim toll. Among the deceased are 23 children, 17 men, and five women. The 105 injured comprise 45 men, 16 women, and 44 children. The severe weather has also caused significant property damage, with 442 houses affected—382 partially damaged and 60 completely destroyed.
Widespread Impact Across Multiple Districts
The disaster has struck a vast swath of the province. Incidents have been reported in numerous districts, including:
- 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 it is coordinating with Rescue 1122, district administrations, and other institutions, with relief activities currently ongoing. Aid supplies have been dispatched to the affected areas, and local authorities have been directed to accelerate efforts to provide immediate assistance to victims.
However, the crisis may not be over. The authority warned of another spell of rain expected 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.
Emergency Services on High Alert
The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains fully functional. Citizens have been advised to report emergencies or seek information via the toll-free helpline 1700 as the province braces for further potential rainfall.
