Cloudburst triggers flash floods, causes heavy damage in Chilas

Chilas – A cloudburst in the Khunbari Valley has triggered devastating floods causing widespread destruction in the upper and remote areas of District Diamer.

According to details, heavy rainfall and cloudburst events in the region led to severe flash flooding which has damaged dozens of houses, standing crops, orchards and connecting roads. Police and local administration reports stated that the Khunbari Valley of Chilas suffered the worst impact due to the cloudburst-induced floods.

Floodwaters carried away trees, timber and debris, severely damaging residential houses and destroying agricultural land and orchards in their path.

In addition, flood-like situations were also reported in various areas of Tehsil Darel including Khunbari Valley, Manikal, Shahi Mahal, Bichhe Nala and Lancher where widespread destruction was witnessed.

Police officials warned that several roads and routes have been completely washed away cutting off land connectivity to these remote valleys. Due to road blockages, there is an acute shortage of food supplies and essential ration in the Khunbri Valley.

Residents of Khunbri and Darel who have been cut off from surrounding areas have appealed to the government to urgently restore blocked roads so that access to stranded families can be ensured.

Upon receiving reports of the disaster, teams from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Diamer were immediately mobilized and relief operations have been launched in the affected upper areas.

PDMA officials said efforts are underway to relocate affected people to safer places and provide immediate relief however, blocked routes are creating serious difficulties for rescue and relief teams.