Chief Minister directs PDMA for relief efforts

Recent heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have led to a tragic incident, resulting in a death toll of 36 people and leaving 46 others injured. The downpour, which has been ongoing since last night, has caused significant damage across the province, prompting a high alert from the district administration.

The Provincial Disasters Management Authority (PDMA) reported that the casualties included 20 children, 8 men, and 8 women among the deceased, while 9 women, 33 men, and 11 children sustained injuries. Additionally, a total of 2391 houses were damaged, with 388 houses completely destroyed and 2003 partially damaged due to collapsing walls and roofs in various districts.

The affected areas span multiple districts including Khyber, Dir Upper and Lower, Chitral Upper, Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Mansehra, Mohmand, Malakand, Karak, Tank, Mardan, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Buner, Hangu, Battaghram, and Bannu, among others. In response to the crisis, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, directed the PDMA to release 110 million rupees for financial assistance and relief efforts in the affected districts.

Relief materials such as tents, mats, kitchen sets, blankets, beds, tarpaulins, solar lamps, and other essential items have been provided to the affected regions. The PDMA, in collaboration with other organizations, is actively engaged in relief operations to support those impacted by the calamity.

As the rains are expected to persist until April 21, the PDMA has urged all district administrations to remain vigilant and implement necessary precautions. The PDMA Emergency Operation Center is fully operational, and individuals are encouraged to report any emergencies by calling 1700.

The devastating effects of the heavy rains and floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have underscored the importance of swift and coordinated response efforts to mitigate the impact on affected communities. The government's allocation of funds and distribution of relief supplies demonstrate a commitment to supporting those in need during this challenging time.