By Michelle Ndaga
Heavy rains have triggered devastating floods in northern Pakistan, severely affecting the regions of Swat, Bajaur, and parts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Over the past 24 hours, at least 49 people have lost their lives due to flooding and related landslides.
The Pakistan Army has mobilized for large-scale rescue and relief operations, deploying helicopters to evacuate stranded residents and deliver essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid. Local authorities report that numerous villages remain cut off, and many families are trapped in high-risk areas.
Despite the active military response, government-led emergency relief is yet to be fully deployed, prompting widespread calls from residents and humanitarian organizations for an official emergency declaration to streamline aid delivery and recovery efforts.
Experts warn that the situation could worsen as more heavy rains are forecast in the coming days, raising the risk of additional landslides and property damage. Humanitarian groups are urging immediate international and domestic support to mitigate the crisis and assist affected communities.
The floods highlight Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters and underscore the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in flood-prone areas.
