The death toll from devastating flash floods and landslides triggered by relentless monsoon rains in Pakistan has surged to 351, according to official reports.

Authorities fear the number of fatalities could rise further as rescue operations continue in the hardest-hit regions, where infrastructure, homes, and businesses have been ravaged.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bears the brunt of the disaster, with 328 reported deaths and numerous injuries. The northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan recorded 12 fatalities, while Azad Jammu and Kashmir, also known as Pakistan-administered Kashmir, reported 11 deaths. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has declared nine districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as flood-affected, including Swat, Battagram, Bajaur, Buner, Dir Lower, Dir Upper, Mansehra, Torghar, and Shangla.

In Buner alone, 209 deaths have been confirmed, with 134 people still missing and 159 injured. Rescue operations are in full swing, supported by three army battalions and 300 civil defense volunteers. Authorities are distributing food, tents, and blankets to affected communities, many of whom have lost everything to the floods.

Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, visited the flood-ravaged areas of Buner on Saturday, later chairing a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Officials reported that over 3,500 people have been rescued so far. Gandapur praised the efforts of rescue teams and vowed that the government would spare no effort in rehabilitating victims. The province observed a day of mourning on Saturday to honor those lost in the disaster.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh alert, warning of another spell of monsoon rains expected to begin on Friday and continue until September 10. These rains could exacerbate the already dire situation, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas prone to landslides and flooding.

Rescue operations have been bolstered by international aid, with emergency relief teams from neighboring countries and global organizations arriving to assist. The United Nations has pledged $5 million in immediate aid to support relief efforts, focusing on providing clean water, medical supplies, and temporary shelters. Local reports indicate that over 10,000 homes have been destroyed or severely damaged across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, displacing thousands of families.

The NDMA has also deployed drones to survey remote areas cut off by landslides, aiding in the identification of stranded individuals. Meanwhile, health officials are warning of potential disease outbreaks due to contaminated water sources and poor sanitation in temporary shelters. Vaccination drives and water purification efforts are being prioritized to mitigate these risks.

Climate experts note that Pakistan’s monsoon season, which runs from June to September, has become increasingly unpredictable and severe due to climate change. This year’s rains have been particularly intense, overwhelming outdated infrastructure and exacerbating vulnerabilities in rural areas. The government is now facing mounting pressure to implement long-term flood mitigation strategies, including improved early warning systems and climate-resilient infrastructure.

As rescue teams race against time and the threat of more rain looms, Pakistan grapples with one of the worst flooding disasters in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated relief and recovery efforts. (ILKHA)