Islamabad experiences severe flooding, claiming the lives of seven individuals, according to DIK reports.
Heavy Rains and Flooding Cause Chaos Across Pakistan
Pakistan is currently grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains and flooding that have affected several cities and regions, resulting in casualties, property damage, and power outages.
In Dera Ismail Khan, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has directed the district administration and rescue services to remain on high alert. The city has been hit hard by the storm, with powerful winds and torrential rain bringing down trees and electricity lines, causing power outages in many areas. Tragically, at least seven people have lost their lives due to roof collapses in different localities, and dozens more have been injured. An emergency has been declared in hospitals across the city to provide immediate medical aid to the injured.
The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) in Dera Ismail Khan is responsible for emergency measures, including rescue and restoration of power supply.
Elsewhere in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, residents faced heavy showers in Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, and North and South Waziristan. In Mardan, a roof collapse during rainfall resulted in one death and two injuries.
Heavy rain has been reported in several cities across Punjab, including Gujrat, Kamalia, Gojra, Toba Tek Singh, Kot Addu, Bhalwal, and Miani. In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, flash floods occurred due to hours of downpour, submerging the Bhara Kahu area, entering shops and houses, and leaving vehicles stranded.
Several hiking trails in the Margalla Hills have been closed for public safety, including Trails 2, 3, 4, 5, and the one behind Saidpur village.
The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a weather alert, warning of more widespread and intense rainfall across much of the country until 30 August. Officials in Gilgit-Baltistan have warned of fresh downpours starting from Saturday, and as a precaution, hotels along the Gilgit riverbank have been closed, and schools near the river will remain shut on Monday due to fears of rising water levels.
In Azad Kashmir's Bagh district, rain triggered landslides that damaged two houses and a mosque, but no casualties were reported. Nikyal in Azad Kashmir received sustained rainfall, and Samahni and nearby villages saw thunderstorms and flash floods in local streams.
The KP government spokesperson, Faraz Mughal, expressed grief over the deaths in Dera Ismail Khan due to the storms and heavy rain. The authorities have taken swift action to alleviate the pressure on Rawal Dam by opening its spillways.
Despite the challenges, the Pakistani authorities are working tirelessly to provide aid and assistance to those affected by the heavy rains and flooding. The people of Pakistan stand united in these trying times, offering their support and solidarity to those in need.
