Survivors of Buner floods seek dignity in aid

Her plea captures the urgency on the ground as survivors of the devastating August 15 monsoon floods

ISLAMABAD: “Cash is better than random food. We know what we need. We lost livestock, utensils, and bedding. Everyone’s needs are different,” says a female flood affectees from Pacha Batai village

Her plea captures the urgency on the ground as survivors of the devastating August 15 monsoon rains struggle to rebuild their lives amid widespread destruction and deep emotional scars.

A rapid assessment by KBM CARE Foundation reveals a staggering death toll of 236 people, with 128 injured and 32 missing. More than 55,000 acres of crops and nearly 5,000 livestock have been lost, while 737 homes and 825 shops lie destroyed or damaged. Entire villages remain cut off after bridges and roads were washed away, leaving remote areas like Ganashal and Kot Dara beyond the reach of timely aid.

Despite the devastation, local markets are still operating, leading KBM CARE to recommend unrestricted cash transfers of PKR 40,000–45,000 per family via mobile wallets. Cash organization argues, would let families buy essentials based on their unique needs instead of receiving one-size-fits-all relief parcels.

Beyond material loss, the floods have left deep psychological wounds. Families who buried loved ones now face trauma without access to counseling or mental health care. The report highlights a critical lack of psychosocial support services, a gap that risks compounding the crisis, especially for widows, children, and minority communities whose sacred sites were destroyed.

With schools turned into shelters, contaminated water sources, and emergency health services stretched thin, KBM CARE is urging humanitarian agencies to prioritize mental health interventions alongside emergency aid. The organization also calls for better-coordinated relief efforts and gender-sensitive facilities to protect vulnerable groups.

“This is not just a disaster of homes and livelihoods,” said Muhammad Amin, KBM CARE’s lead assessor. “It’s a disaster of minds and hearts too. Without trauma care and flexible cash support, recovery will remain out of reach for many families.”