In response to the devastating floods in northwestern Pakistan, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir has issued special directives to bolster relief and rehabilitation efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The floods, caused by cloudbursts, flash floods, and torrential rains, have claimed the lives of over 200 people in the province.
Directives and Contributions:
- Full Military Support: The COAS has ordered troops stationed in KP to provide full assistance to the affected communities. To reinforce these efforts, extra military units are being deployed to the worst-hit areas. A specialized Urban Search and Rescue team, along with a K-9 unit from the Nine Unit, has been dispatched to assist in locating survivors and victims.
- Engineer Corps’ Role: Recognizing the critical need for connectivity, Field Marshal Munir has issued special instructions to the Corps of Engineers to expedite the repair of damaged bridges. He also directed them to install temporary bridges where necessary to restore vital supply lines and access to affected villages.
- Financial and Material Aid: In a significant show of support, the Pakistan Army has announced that all military personnel will donate a day’s salary for the rehabilitation of flood victims. In addition, the army has allocated its one-day ration, amounting to over 600 tonnes, to be distributed as aid.
Context of the Disaster:
The catastrophe has been described by a resident as “doomsday.” The heavy rains have caused widespread fatalities, with at least 206 confirmed deaths in KP. The provincial government, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, has declared a day of mourning to honor the victims. The tragedy was compounded by the crash of a provincial government rescue helicopter in Bajaur, which was attempting to deliver aid, killing all five crew members.
The military’s response, including the deployment of additional troops, specialized rescue teams, and the donation of rations and salaries, highlights the severity of the situation and the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive relief and rehabilitation to the affected people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
