A devastating monsoon season has brought catastrophic floods to north Pakistan, claiming hundreds of lives and destroying entire villages. The worst-hit area is Bishnoi, where a sudden torrent of water swept through the village on Friday, 15 August, killing dozens of people.
Locals described the scene as “apocalyptic,” with huge rocks and concrete blocks scattered everywhere. Without heavy machinery, rescue workers and locals were forced to clear debris using small tools. Many homes have been buried under the ground, and the number of fatalities is estimated to be around 217 in Buner district alone.
The monsoon season, which typically brings about three-quarters of South Asia’s annual rainfall between June and September, has proven particularly deadly this year. At least 507 people have died and over 700 injured since the start of the monsoon in late June. Global warming is believed to be a contributing factor, as glaciers in the region are rapidly thinning and melting.
Government forecasters warn that heavy rainfall is expected until August 21, with several areas declared disaster zones. In one dramatic rescue effort, a school principal saved nearly 900 students from the floods by ordering an evacuation just before the waters surged through the school, washing away half the building.
The search for survivors continues, with many people still missing and families desperately seeking information about loved ones who may have been caught in the floods. As the situation remains dire, international aid is pouring in to support those affected by the disaster.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce3jeed2798o