WEBDESK: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday have arrived in the flood-affected areas to review the situation.
Federal govt will work together with the provinces for flood victims: PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while addressing flood victims in Buner, said, “The federal government will work with the provinces, will work for the flood victims.” He assured the people that “all resources of the federation will be utilised for the affected families without any discrimination.”
PM said that more than 700 people have lost their lives in the recent rains and floods, with over 300 deaths reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) alone.
The Prime Minister further said, “Under the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, the Pakistan Army is working day and night to support those affected by the floods.” He added, “In the current situation, serving the nation is a collective responsibility of all citizens.”
He strongly criticised the construction of hotels and houses inside riverbeds. He said, “Building hotels in a river is a grave mistake. It cannot be forgiven or compensated. Such construction is not only illegal but also a threat to human lives.” He stressed that in the future, strict bans will be imposed on such practices and responsible departments will be held accountable.
Shehbaz Sharif also warned the nation that two more spells of heavy rains are expected, with the next beginning from 2 September. He directed all institutions to take precautionary measures and keep the public on alert.
Paying tribute to the Pakistan Army, Al-Khidmat Foundation, and other welfare organisations, the Prime Minister said they are playing a vital role in rescue and relief. “The Pakistan Army is fighting terrorists on one side and helping flood victims on the other,” he remarked. He added that the government, with the cooperation of Field Marshal Asim Munir and the armed forces, is determined to stabilise the economy as well.
He assured the public that all available resources are being used to provide relief. “In this difficult hour, we stand with the provinces. Our hearts bleed when we see our brothers in trouble. We will overcome these challenges together,” he said.
Protection and relief of flood victims is top priority: Field Marshal Asim Munir
Field Marshal Asim Munir during his visit met with army personnel, police, and civil administration officials engaged in flood relief operations. He appreciated the services of all those working tirelessly to support the affected communities. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment, saying that, “Protection and relief of flood victims is the top priority.”
Officials confirmed that both will continue visiting other affected areas during the day.
Recent rains and floods have caused severe devastation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. More than 350 people have died so far, including 228 in Buner alone. Heavy rainfall has also hit Balochistan, worsening the situation.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said relief supplies are being sent to the affected regions. On Wednesday morning, two consignments were dispatched to Bajaur and Mansehra. These included tents, blankets, generators, de-watering pumps, ration bags, and medicines.
NDMA added that the aid will be handed over to the local administration for fair distribution among the flood victims. Relief work is being carried out in coordination with the armed forces and welfare organisations. Supplies are also being sent to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan.
DG ISPR Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that road infrastructure in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has been badly damaged. Two engineer battalions have been deployed in KP and two in Gilgit, while three medical units are also working in the affected areas. Over 6,000 injured people have received treatment at medical camps.
Due to flood devastation and death toll rise in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the government has announced school holidays in flood hit areas.
According to the notification issued here, the Secretary, Elementary & Secondary Education Department stated that schools across the province will remain closed from August 19, to 25 (one week).
