Dozens killed as flash floods hit Afghanistan, Pakistan
Heavy flooding from seasonal rains in Afghanistan killed at least 31 people and left dozens missing over the previous three days, while in neighboring Pakistan 13 people died due to heavy rains and landslides.
The natural disaster struck hard in the region, exacerbating the already precarious situation in both countries.
In Afghanistan, at least 31 people were reported dead, with 74 others injured and a staggering 41 individuals still unaccounted for. Shafiullah Rahimi, the Taliban-appointed spokesman for Afghanistan's disaster ministry, revealed the grim toll of the floods, which occurred over a span of three days. The capital, Kabul, along with the provinces of Maidan Wardak and Ghazni, bore the brunt of the flash floods. The majority of casualties were concentrated in west Kabul and Maidan Wardak, while an additional 250 livestock perished as a result of the devastating waters.
Afghanistan, already facing immense challenges, suffered further misery due to the floods. Prior to this disaster, the United Nations' humanitarian affairs agency had already highlighted the country's severe predicament. Afghanistan was grappling with its third consecutive year of drought, coupled with a second year of intense economic hardship, and the lingering consequences of decades of war and natural calamities.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the torrential downpours claimed the lives of 13 people, and seven others were injured. Landslides triggered by heavy rains added to the woes, as monsoon season continued to affect various parts of the country. In the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province alone, nine lives were lost in rain-related incidents within the last 48 hours.
As the monsoon rains persisted since June 25, Pakistan's national disaster management authority recorded a total death toll of 101 people, including 16 women and 42 children. The situation remains dire, and authorities are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to the affected communities.
The flash floods have dealt a severe blow to the already vulnerable regions, compounding the challenges faced by the people in Afghanistan and Pakistan. With loss of lives, displacement, and infrastructural damage, the recovery process will undoubtedly be arduous. It is crucial for both nations to receive support and assistance from the international community to aid in rebuilding lives and restoring livelihoods.
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