Zeal News | Pakistan's Top News Network Delivering News, That Matters!
Chitral: Recent heavy rains and subsequent floods have caused extensive damage to multiple areas in Lower and Upper Chitral. The increased water flow in the Chitral River and its tributaries has led to flooding, submerging low-lying regions and affecting more than half of the population.
According to initial reports and municipal representatives, more than 30 houses have been completely swept away in Upper Chitral, and around 60 houses have been affected in Lower Chitral. Partially affected households stand at over 90 in Upper Chitral and approximately 50 in Lower Chitral. The floods have also severely impacted agricultural lands, orchards, irrigation systems, and water supply facilities, along with damaging roads and bridges.
Responding to the situation, the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Nadim Islam Chaudhry, visited the flood-affected areas, announcing an immediate allocation of 2.2 crore rupees for relief and rehabilitation efforts in both districts. While the provided funds are a welcome step for immediate relief, the restoration of infrastructure will require much more substantial resources.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has declared an emergency until 15th August for the affected districts. This declaration aims to expedite relief and aid operations. However, the success of these emergency measures depends on the prioritization and efficient execution of rehabilitation efforts in both Upper and Lower Chitral.
Local administrative authorities need to ensure that relief and rehabilitation activities are promptly carried out, and assessments are conducted transparently to address the needs of affected communities effectively. Additionally, those whose lands have been submerged or damaged due to river erosion must be supported adequately.
The district administration should swiftly relocate families residing in vulnerable areas to safer locations. Regular monitoring of flood-prone regions should be in place to protect inhabitants from further disasters.
