The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), in its latest report on Sunday, said rain-related incidents in in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had tragically claimed 27 lives.
The victims included 18 men, one woman, and eight children. Bannu recorded the highest number of deaths with 15, followed by five in Lakki Marwat and Karak, and two in Dera Ismail Khan.
The PDMA also reported that 147 people sustained injuries in rain-related incidents, including 125 men, 17 women, and four children. Additionally, at least 125 cattle perished. The report highlighted partial damage to one school and 69 homes.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his grief over the loss of lives and attributed the erratic weather patterns to climate change.
In a tweet, he emphasized the adverse effects of climate change, including hailstorms, avalanches, and untimely rains. PM Shehbaz stressed the need for concrete steps to combat climate change, which not only impacts lives and property but also hampers agricultural activities and the economy.
Climate Minister Sherry Rehman also expressed condolences for the lives lost in rain-related incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. She praised the swift response of the Pakistan Army, disaster management authorities, and other departments.
Minister Rehman raised concerns about the damaging effects of gusty winds and heavy rainfall on people’s lives, livestock, and infrastructure. She urged provincial governments and related institutions to remain vigilant and prepared for further incidents.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to ensure relief and rehabilitation measures in rain-affected areas, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He instructed the authorities to provide a report on relief activities within 24 hours. The prime minister expressed deep sorrow over the lives lost due to rain-related incidents in various parts of the province.
