Islamabad: Pakistan’s second powerful spell of monsoon rains has caused widespread devastation across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Punjab, leaving at least 12 people dead and 15 others injured due to flash floods, landslides, and rain-related incidents.
According to reports, torrential rainfall triggered flash floods in rivers and seasonal streams, damaging roads, bridges, homes, and other infrastructure. Water levels in several rivers and waterways rose to dangerous levels, prompting emergency alerts.
In Khyber district, a powerful flash flood swept away several vehicles after heavy rainfall, while sections of the Pak-Afghan Highway were submerged, severely disrupting traffic.
In Kaghan Valley, a major landslide at Sahuch blocked the Naran–Jalkhad Road for all types of traffic, leaving a large number of tourists stranded.
Continuous rainfall also washed away three connecting bridges and damaged several homes and hotels. Rising water levels in the Kunhar River have increased the risk for nearby low-lying communities.
In Mardan, two children were killed when the roof of a house collapsed during heavy rain. A woman and a young girl were also injured and shifted to a nearby hospital by rescue teams.In AJK’s Neelum Valley, the Katha Piran stream overflowed, carrying massive boulders and causing panic among residents in surrounding areas.
Punjab has also witnessed a significant rise in river flows. In Wazirabad, authorities issued evacuation warnings to residents living near the Chenab River due to flood threats, urging them to move to safer locations immediately. A low-level flood warning has also been issued for Chiniot.
Meanwhile, rainfall brought pleasant weather to Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and several other cities across Punjab. However, authorities have advised residents in low-lying areas to remain cautious and follow safety instructions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast more heavy rainfall, landslides, and localized flooding across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, AJK, Punjab, and Gilgit-Baltistan until July 24. Citizens and relevant authorities have been urged to stay on high alert and take precautionary measures.