PESHAWAR – The monsoon floods in Swat have unleashed severe destruction across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the Swat River at Khowazakhela experiencing intense flooding over the past 24 hours. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high alert, mobilizing resources to address the crisis that has claimed lives and damaged infrastructure.
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The monsoon floods in Swat have resulted in 11 fatalities, including 4 men, 3 women, and 4 children, with 6 others injured (3 men and 3 women), according to PDMA’s initial report. Swat district has been the hardest hit, with flash floods, landslides, and flooding causing 10 deaths and damaging 56 homes, 6 of which were completely destroyed and 50 partially affected. The relentless rains have heightened risks, prompting PDMA to issue alerts to Nowshera and Charsadda for preemptive measures.
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PDMA’s Emergency Operation Center is actively coordinating with district administrations and rescue teams, with Director General Asfandyar Khattak and Director Emergency Operations Amjad Khan overseeing operations. Under the Monsoon Contingency Plan, PDMA has distributed 136 trucks of relief supplies, including tents, tarps, kitchen sets, blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags. Additionally, PKR 450 million has been allocated for immediate relief and compensation. PDMA urges residents to contact its 24/7 toll-free helpline, 1700, for emergencies or assistance.
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A three-member committee, chaired by Grade-21 officer Khayam Hassan Khan and including Grade-19 officer Muhammad Usman and Grade-18 officer Shahryar Qamar, has been formed to investigate the monsoon floods in Swat. The committee will identify any negligence by officials or institutions and recommend robust safety measures to prevent future disasters.
With the monsoon floods in Swat posing ongoing risks, PDMA’s proactive measures and the investigation committee’s efforts aim to support affected communities and enhance preparedness. Residents are advised to stay alert and report concerns to PDMA’s helpline.
