Heavy rains and flash floods in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa since August 15 have claimed at least 406 lives and injured over 245 others, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).
The casualties include 305 men, 55 women and 46 children, while the injured comprise 179 men, 38 women, and 30 children.
Moreover, torrential rains and floods have damaged 3,526 houses, with 2,945 partially destroyed and 577 completely demolished.
Buner recorded the highest number of fatalities with 337 deaths, followed by Sawabi with a death toll of 46.
Casualties were reported in Swat, Buner, Bajaur, Mansehra, Shangla, Lower Dir, Battagram, DI Khan and Sawabi.
Authorities in affected districts have been instructed to speed up relief operations and provide immediate assistance to victims.
PDMA and relevant agencies remain in contact and are closely monitoring the situation.
The Emergency Operations Center remains fully operational. Residents can report emergencies or seek updates via the free helpline 1700.
Free medical camp
A free medical camp has also been established by the Pakistan Army in flood-affected areas of Balakot, where they have assisted more than 1,327 people.
The camp provided medical assistance to 740 men, 336 women, and 251 children, according to army personnel.
Patients with stomach ailments, muscular pain, skin infections, respiratory issues and other diseases were examined, and free medicines were distributed.
Army medical staff examine patients during a free medical camp. Photo: Express
The camp was staffed by doctors and medical personnel to cater to the needs of the affected population.
Residents receive free check-ups and medicines at an army-run medical camp. Photo: Express
The Pakistan Army stated relief operations continue in Balakot and other flood-hit areas to address urgent health and humanitarian requirements.
Monsoon rain
Landslides and flash floods are common during the monsoon season, which typically begins in June and lasts until the end of September..
Locals gather at a free medical camp for health consultations and treatment. Photo: Express
This year, nearly 750 people have died across the country since the season started, according to authorities.
Free medicines being distributed during a medical camp organized by the army. Photo: Express
Pakistan is among the world’s most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change and is increasingly facing extreme weather events.
Patients line up for medical assistance at a health camp. Photo: Express
Monsoon floods submerged one-third of Pakistan in 2022, resulting in approximately 1,700 deaths.
