PESHAWAR:
At least 26 people, including 18 children, have been killed and 77 others injured in rain-related incidents across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa since March 25, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported on Friday.
The deaths occurred when roofs and walls collapsed due to heavy rains that have hit several parts of the province. Among the dead were 18 children, three men and five women. The injured include 33 men, nine women and 35 children, according to PDMA’s latest update.
The authority said a total of 102 houses have been damaged so far. Of these, 82 suffered partial damage, while 20 were completely destroyed. The incidents were reported from various districts including Bannu, Abbottabad, Kohat, Peshawar, Nowshera, Bajaur, Lakki Marwat, Kurram, Hangu, Shangla, Buner, Malakand, Upper Dir, Battagram, North Waziristan and Tank.
Bannu district has been identified as one of the worst affected areas. The director general of PDMA has issued special instructions to the district administration there to ensure immediate help to the families of the deceased.
PDMA, Rescue 1122, district administrations and other line departments maintain close coordination to carry out rescue and relief operations. The authority has asked all concerned district administrations to expedite relief activities and provide immediate support, including food, tents and other essential items, to the affected families.
“District administrations must speed up relief efforts and ensure prompt aid reaches all affected households without delay,” DG PDMA stressed.
Intermittent rainfall continues in various parts of the province. The PDMA has predicted that another spell of rain is likely to continue from April 1 to April 4, raising concerns of further damage in vulnerable areas.
The Director General appealed to the general public to avoid unnecessary travel, especially to hilly and tourist destinations prone to landslides and floods. Citizens have been urged to strictly follow all weather warnings and advisories issued by the government.
PDMA’s Emergency Operations Center operates around the clock. People can contact the toll free helpline 1700 for any emergency, real time weather updates or to report any untoward incidents.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation while relief efforts continue in the affected districts. Officials have assured that all possible steps are being taken to mitigate the impact of the ongoing wet spell and to support the affected communities.
