With the monsoon flood season beginning in Pakistan, concerns have been raised about incomplete flood preparedness due to the country’s financial crisis causing delays. The Express Tribune reported that necessary measures to address potential flooding are still unfinished, as funds for monsoon readiness have not been allocated. In Rawalpindi, drains remain uncleared, and residents in the Leh Nullah area have been temporarily relocated while safeguarding their valuables.
The report also highlighted issues such as buildings and shops with structural problems not being evacuated despite warnings. Each monsoon season witnesses partial or complete collapses of buildings, with evacuation notices often serving as mere formalities. Legal cases regarding these notices face delays in court, reportedly due to government inaction influenced by collusion with tenants, leading to repeated adjournments.
Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan is grappling with extensive damage from flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall. The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority reported flash floods hitting six locations in Diamer, causing significant destruction to houses, the Karakoram Highway, crops, and public and private properties. The Thore Valley experienced road washouts, power disruptions, and debris entering homes, affecting numerous residents.
In a devastating flash flood in Khanbari, entire houses and belongings were swept away, and livestock losses were reported. Dawn highlighted a private company’s substantial losses during the flood, halting development activities as machinery and equipment were washed away. Affected residents are urging immediate relief efforts from the government, National Disaster Management Authority, and other relevant bodies to restore infrastructure, provide aid to affected families, and address the widespread damages.
