Key Takeaways
- The death toll from rain-related incidents during the ongoing monsoon spell has risen to 18 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Four people died in a roof collapse incident in Upper South Waziristan, bringing the total fatalities to 18.
- Landslides and flash floods have disrupted life in Lower South Waziristan, blocking important trade routes.
The death toll from rain-related incidents during the ongoing monsoon spell has risen to 18 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), according to reports. The Pakistan Meteorological Department stated that the current rain spell began on July 19 and is expected to last until July 23.
In Upper South Waziristan, four people lost their lives when a roof collapsed during heavy rainfall in Bangiwala village, located near Sararogha tehsil. Additional Deputy Commissioner Fazal Wadood informed Dawn that the victims were from the same family, including a couple and their son and daughter.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported 14 deaths and 19 injuries in rain-related incidents across KP since July 19. The PDMA also stated that 22 houses had been partially damaged, while six were destroyed due to the heavy rains. Water levels and flows in all rivers and streams are currently normal, but authorities have directed district administrations to remain vigilant.
Heavy rainfall has caused disruptions in Lower South Waziristan, with landslides blocking the Wana-Gomal Zam Road — a critical trade and communication route for the region. A district administration official confirmed that large boulders had fallen from mountains at several points along the road, creating deep potholes and damaging culverts, bridges, and protection walls.
Several residents and commuters told Dawn over the phone that travel on the Wana-Gomal Zam Road has become difficult and risky due to the blockage. They called for immediate steps to reopen the road and restore traffic. Ahmadzai Wazir tribal elders residing in the region urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other relevant authorities to take measures for the reconstruction of the Wana-Gomal Zam Road, noting that it had been in disrepair for a long time.
In another development, flash floods have damaged agricultural land in several areas of Lower South Waziristan. District administration officials reported high flows in the Tanai and Spin streams following the rainfall. The government has reviewed its monsoon preparedness at a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal.
The PDMA advised people to call the helpline 1700 for information about weather conditions or in case of any untoward incidents. Authorities are urging the public to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines during this monsoon season.
