Torrential rain, floods kill 19 people in Balochistan

887 houses completely damaged

ISLAMABAD:

At least 19 people, including nine children and three women, lost lives in various rain-related incidents in different cities of Balochistan in August.

According to a report issued by Balochistan Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), around 13 people sustained injuries due to heavy rains in the current monsoon season in various districts of the province.

The report informed that the deaths in rain-related incidents were reported from Dera Bugti, Jaffarabad, Kohlu, Jhal Magsi, Zhob, Kalat, Kach and Khuzdar.

The PDMA report also apprised that recent torrential rains and floods have damaged 887 houses completely and 98 houses partially in Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Kalat, Jhal Magsi and Khuzdar.

The report further said the current rain spells and floods have also damaged 11 roads in the province and three bridges in Kachi, Gwadar.

It said the Sibi-Quetta Highway has been repaired and restored for all kind of traffic while flood situation was still prevailing in urban and rural areas of the province. Besides, heavy rains have also caused loss to livestock and agriculture sector of the province.

Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal has directed departments concerned to remain functional to address problems of people in rain affected areas.

"The government will ensure restoration of rain affected National Highway and roads as soon as possible for provision of hassle-free travelling to people", directed the chief minister, adding the Irrigation sector would continue monitoring water level of dams and spillway of Hub Dam to release extra water timely.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 30^th, 2020.