- Heavy rain and snowfall have paralyzed life in Gilgit-Baltistan, parts of Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, leading to casualties and widespread disruption.
- Quetta and Balochistan face freezing temperatures, with sub-zero conditions confining people indoors.
- Key roads in KP and GB have been blocked for the fourth consecutive day, hindering travel and relief efforts.
Casualties and Damage:
- Death Toll Rises: 35 confirmed deaths in KP due to rain and snowfall, with 43 others injured.
- Homes Damaged: 46 houses completely destroyed, 300+ partially damaged across KP.
- Balochistan Impact: 5 deaths reported, 82 houses fully damaged, 120+ partially damaged.
- Rescue Operations: Over 900 people rescued in Balochistan, relief efforts ongoing in affected districts.
Roadblocks and Infrastructure:
- Blocked Arteries: Karakoram Highway and Jaglot-Skardu road blocked for four consecutive days.
- Landslide Impact: Huge boulders blocking KKH at Upper Kohistan (KP) and Tata Pani (GB).
- Efforts Underway: Machines from Bhasha dam site called for road clearance.
Weather Forecast:
- Incoming Weather System: PMD predicts a westerly wave to enter Balochistan, expecting rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall in northwest/south Balochistan.
Relief Efforts:
- Government Response: KP CM directs relief items to affected areas, orders road clearance.
- Electricity Disruptions: Several districts facing power outages for four days.
Major Affected Districts:
- KP: Charsadda, Lower/Upper Dir, Malakand, Mohmand, Bannu, Khyber, Bajaur, Nowshera, Peshawar, Shangla, Kohistan.
- Balochistan: Gwadar, Quetta, Kech, Kharan, Chaman, Kohlu, Kila Saifullah, Zhob.
Conclusion:
The situation remains dire as heavy rain and snowfall continue to impact lives and infrastructure in these regions. Authorities are actively engaged in relief operations, aiming to clear blocked roads and provide assistance to the affected population. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions as challenging weather conditions persist.