By WEB DESK: Heavy rains and thunderstorms wreaked havoc in northern Pakistan, leading to a series of incidents including house collapses, landslides, and road blockages, leaving both residents and tourists stranded.
In Swat, a house collapse in Matta resulted in the tragic loss of over 40 cattle, though fortunately, no human casualties were reported. Similarly, in Chakat, Shangla, a house was damaged by a landslide, resulting in the loss of two goats.
The torrential rain caused major roads, including main and link roads, to be blocked across the province, severely disrupting daily life. While the National Highway Authority (NHA) confirmed the opening of the Karakoram Highway for all traffic, tourists heading to popular destinations such as Swat, Kalam, and Kumrat found themselves stranded due to road blockages caused by landslides.
According to media reports, one stranded tourist, Ahmad Ali from Abbottabad, expressed frustration at the lack of government assistance while they remained stuck without food or water. He highlighted the danger posed by the possibility of further landslides in the area.
Meanwhile, in Balochistan, the situation was equally dire as heavy rains continued to lash parts of the region, raising the death toll to 10. In response, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) declared an “urban flood emergency” under the Balochistan Natural Calamity (Prevention and Relief Act).
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Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti chaired an online meeting with divisional commissioners and PDMA officials to assess the situation. While expressing satisfaction with the PDMA’s efforts, he acknowledged public complaints regarding inadequate water drainage and directed resources to address these issues.
Rescue and relief operations were conducted overnight by PDMA teams across various areas, including Hina Orak, Ghai Khan Chowk, and Inscum Road. The government also suspended holidays for Quetta staff and officers and ordered the closure of all public and private schools in the province.
On the other hand, the Pakistan Meteorological Department issued forecasts warning of more rain, wind, and thunderstorms throughout the week, with the possibility of flash flooding and landslides in several regions. The PMD urged residents to take precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the inclement weather.
The effects of the heavy rains were evident in coastal towns such as Pasni, Kech, and Panjgur, where severe damages to houses, infrastructure, and transportation networks were reported. Electricity and gas supply disruptions added to the challenges faced by residents in affected areas.
Overall, the torrential rains have inflicted significant damage and disruption in both Swat and Balochistan, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to address the aftermath and ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike.
