UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep sadness over the devastating floods in Pakistan and India that have claimed hundreds of lives and left many people missing. Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and damage caused by the floods.
Chief Guterres offered his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and said the United Nations stands in solidarity with everyone affected. He also confirmed that the UN is ready to assist both governments. UN teams in Pakistan and India are prepared to help with relief efforts in coordination with local authorities.
In Pakistan, the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been the worst affected. According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), at least 323 people have died and 156 have been injured due to heavy rains and flash floods. The victims include 273 men, 29 women, and 21 children. The injured include 123 men, 23 women, and 10 children.
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Flooding has damaged a total of 336 houses across the province. Out of these, 106 homes have been completely destroyed and 230 have been partially damaged. Buner district has suffered the most, with 209 deaths reported. Other affected areas include Swat, Bajaur, Torghar, Mansehra, Shangla, and Battagram.
The PDMA has warned that more rain is on the way. Three additional monsoon spells are expected, with rainfall likely to be 50% heavier than usual. Northern regions and the Potohar area are expected to be hit hardest. There is also a risk of cloudbursts in Rawalpindi, Murree, Jhelum, Chakwal, and Attock. Urban flooding is expected in Lahore and other cities. The Meteorological Department says heavy rain is likely from August 17 to 19, and wet weather could continue until August 21.
Relief efforts are in progress. On the special direction of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, 89 trucks carrying relief supplies have been sent to affected areas. These include tents, mattresses, bedding, kitchen sets, tarpaulins, mosquito nets, generators, and other essentials.
The provincial government has released Rs800 million to support district administrations in the flood-hit areas. An additional Rs500 million has been allocated specifically to Buner district to help with recovery and aid.
