Storm ravages Bannu; four killed, 24 injured

Torrential rain and strong winds flatten roofs, walls

BANNU:

A powerful dust storm accompanied by torrential rains and strong winds unleashed devastation across Bannu district on Friday, leaving at least four people dead and 24 others injured.

The fierce weather caused roofs and boundary walls to collapse in several areas, burying residents under debris. Several head of cattle were also killed in the storm.

According to Rescue 1122 and district administration officials, the fatalities include Balqiaz Khan, son of Malik Nawaz, a resident of Mughal Khel Bharat. Three women from the same family in Jhando Khel also lost their lives: Islam Daraz, daughter of Gulzad Ali; Alshan, wife of Shafidullah; and their daughter Tanzila.

The injured include Anas, Muhammad, Maqeerullah, Mubashir, Shah Zaman, and several others from various localities including Wrishem Khel, Kot Brara, Zargar Mama Khel, Salam Gul Kala Mandan, Shah Deo, Nasri Bharot, Jhando Khel, and Lucky Marwat.

Multiple houses, shops, and other properties were damaged across the district. Rescue teams rushed to the affected areas immediately after receiving emergency calls, pulling injured people from the rubble and shifting them to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Deputy Commissioner Bannu Muhammad Fahim Khan visited the hospitals to inquire about the condition of the injured and personally inspected the affected localities. In view of the emergency, the district administration has imposed an emergency in all government hospitals under the Medical Teaching Institution (MTI) Bannu. Doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff have been placed on high alert.

Rescue 1122 officials said additional rescue teams and ambulances have been deployed following a surge in emergency calls. Relief operations are continuing, and an assessment of the total damage is underway.