M. Ilyas Mullakhel
Peshawar — Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is once again reeling under the grip of severe floods.According to official statistics, field reports, and local sources, as many as 27 districts of the province have been badly affected by torrential rains, Cloud Bursting and flash floods this year.However, a sharp contrast has emerged between government claims and the ground realities, raising serious concerns among the public.
Official Figures vs Ground Realities,
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reports that more than 385 lives have been lost, with over 61 people injured. Floodwaters have completely destroyed around 50,000 houses, while 324 homes sustained partial damage. Additionally, 227 roads, 33 bridges, 40 schools, and 12 health units have been washed away.
On the other hand, local social organizations and field workers contest these numbers, claiming that the actual losses are much higher.Independent reports suggest over 400 deaths and the destruction of more than 500 houses so far.
Misery of the Displaced,
Thousands of displaced families are now forced to live under the open sky. In many villages, there is an acute shortage of clean drinking water, food, medical care, and medicines.According to the victims, much of the government’s relief claims remain confined to paperwork.
One affected woman lamented:
“We haven’t received any relief for three days.The children are hungry and falling sick.There is neither medicine nor shelter.”
Administrative Negligence or Incompetence,
Investigative findings reveal that several districts lacked adequate Rescue 1122 vehicles and staff when the floods struck.To make matters worse, rescue vehicles belonging to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, seized by the Punjab government during recent protest demonstrations, have still not been returned further delaying relief operations in the hardest hit areas.
Moreover, despite advance warnings issued by the Meteorological Department, local administrations failed to activate any effective pre-monitoring or preparedness system to deal with the looming flood threats.
Expert Opinions,
Experts point to deforestation, encroachments on riverbeds, and poor drainage systems as the primary reasons behind the scale of devastation.They believe that timely preventive measures could have significantly reduced the extent of losses.
Conclusion,
The investigation clearly shows that the recent flood destruction in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not just a natural disaster but also the outcome of administrative failures and negligence. Displaced families are still waiting desperately for immediate relief and government attention. Without urgent practical measures, the crisis is likely to deepen further.