ISLAMABAD (Khyber Mail): Following devastating floods between July 29 and August 3, the British High Commission has been at the forefront of relief efforts in Chitral. The floods, caused by torrential rains, flash floods, and glacial lake outburst floods, resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of 14 drinking water supply schemes, 15 jeep-able bridges, 55 irrigation channels, 9 link roads, 3 school buildings, 4,000 feet of protection walls, and 20 local shops.
Leveraging their presence in Chitral, the British High Commission, in collaboration with Concern Worldwide and the Agha Khan Foundation, has been addressing immediate needs. Their support includes providing essential items such as kitchen sets, hygiene kits, and water storage containers to around 300 families. Efforts are also underway to restore damaged drinking water systems, essential irrigation channels, and remove debris to re-enable access and livelihoods. These initiatives are expected to benefit over 20,000 people in Chitral.
Chargé d’Affaires of the British High Commission, Andrew Dalgleish, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “The recent floods in Chitral are devastating. Lives and livelihoods have been destroyed. The UK is here to support Pakistan. These floods are a stark reminder that there is much more to be done to improve Pakistan’s climate resilience.”
This year, floods in Pakistan have already resulted in 141 deaths, 266 injuries, and damage to over 1,000 houses. Climate change remains a priority for the UK Government. During the 2022 floods, the UK provided aid to over 2.3 million people, dedicating £39 million in UK aid and raising £41.5 million through the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal. The UK’s focus is on enhancing Pakistan’s long-term climate resilience, having already helped 1.5 million people and aiming to support an additional 3 million in the next 4-5 years.