UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating floods in Pakistan and India that have killed hundreds and left many missing. He assured that the United Nations stands ready to assist both governments in relief efforts.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric on Sunday, Guterres said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragic loss of life caused by flash floods across the region.
“The Secretary-General offers his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and stands in solidarity with all those affected,” the statement read.
Guterres emphasized that UN country teams in both Pakistan and India are ready to provide necessary assistance in coordination with the respective governments.
So far, at least 323 people have lost their lives and 156 have been injured across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to recent heavy rainfall and flash floods.
According to a report by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the deceased include 273 men, 29 women and 21 children. Among the injured are 123 men, 23 women and 10 children.
The report confirms damage to 336 houses across the province. Of these, 106 have been completely destroyed, while 230 have suffered partial damage.
The worst-affected district is Buner, where 209 fatalities have been recorded so far. Other impacted areas include Swat, Bajaur, Torghar, Mansehra, Shangla and Battagram.
Meanwhile, the PDMA has warned of three further monsoon spells expected to enter the country, with a projected 50 per cent increase in intensity.
Northern regions and the Potohar area are likely to be most affected. There is a risk of cloudbursts in Rawalpindi, Murree, Jhelum, Chakwal and Attock. Urban flooding has also been forecast in Lahore and other cities.
According to the Meteorological Department, heavy rainfall is expected between 17 and 19 August. The current weather pattern is likely to continue intermittently until 21 August.
On the special direction of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister, relief goods have been dispatched to the affected districts via 89 trucks.
These supplies include tents, mattresses, bedding, kitchen sets, tarpaulins, mats, mosquito nets, generators and other essential items.
Under provincial government orders, the PDMA has allocated Rs800 million in relief funds to the district administrations of affected areas. An additional Rs500 million has been released specifically for the Buner district administration.
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