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Devastating Floods Claim 42 More Lives in Pakistan, Death Toll Rises to 749

By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD — At least 42 people lost their lives in the past 24 hours as devastating floods continue to batter Pakistan, pushing the nationwide death toll to 749 since late June, disaster management authorities said Wednesday.

The northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remains the hardest hit, with 446 fatalities recorded so far. Districts including Buner, Swat, and Shangla have borne the brunt of the destruction, where homes, roads, and bridges have been swept away by relentless rains and flash floods.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the flood-stricken areas of Buner and Swat on Wednesday, conducting an aerial survey to assess damages. He met with affected families, offering condolences and distributing compensation cheques to those who lost loved ones or property.

Sharif pledged that the federal government, in coordination with provincial authorities, would expedite relief and rehabilitation efforts. “The people of KP are not alone in this tragedy. We will rebuild together and ensure the victims receive timely assistance,” he said during his visit.

Authorities warn that the situation could worsen, with more rain forecast in northern and western regions of the country. Rescue operations remain ongoing as hundreds are still reported missing. Thousands of families have been displaced, taking shelter in temporary camps set up by the government and aid organizations.

Pakistan, which continues to face recurring climate-induced disasters, has been struggling to cope with heavy monsoon rains that have triggered landslides, river overflows, and large-scale devastation. Officials fear the death toll may rise further as search and recovery operations continue in remote areas.