Pakistan Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Doubles Compensation for Flood Victims’ Families

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The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has announced a major increase in financial support for families of those who lost their lives in recent floods, with compensation now set at PKR 2 million per deceased victim.

Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information, Muhammad Ali Saif, confirmed that the government has begun distributing payments under a special relief package. He said the compensation amount had been doubled from the earlier Rs1 million, adding that Rs850 million had already been released to districts for disbursement.

Saif stressed that the provincial government stands with the affected communities during this crisis. He urged residents to exercise caution as further heavy rains are expected, advising people to avoid rivers and streams and to report emergencies through the 1700 helpline.

Federal Support in Relief Efforts:

In addition to provincial measures, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Engineer Amir Muqam, delivered large consignments of relief goods to authorities in Swat for distribution among flood victims. Meeting with local residents, he assured them of continued assistance from the federal government.

Muqam described the rehabilitation of flood-affected communities as a major challenge but expressed confidence that both federal and provincial administrations, with public support, would manage the situation effectively.

He cautioned against political divisions during the crisis, saying the priority must remain on providing relief and rehabilitation. “This is a time for unity and joint efforts to ease the suffering of victims,” he said.

Damage Across Malakand Division

The minister noted that Malakand division had been among the worst hit by the floods, with extensive losses to agriculture, including peach and apple orchards, as well as damage to communication networks. Small traders and shopkeepers also reported heavy financial setbacks after goods and property were washed away.

Muqam added that relief measures for affected farmers would be a key part of recovery efforts, while priority would remain on rescuing stranded families, providing medical treatment to the injured, and ensuring supplies reach all affected communities.

He emphasized that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was personally overseeing rescue and relief operations in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with regular shipments of aid being dispatched to the most damaged areas.

Community Response

Muqam also praised the contributions of local communities, non-governmental organizations, and philanthropists who have mobilized resources to assist in the emergency. He described their role as crucial in helping the government respond quickly to widespread losses.

With both provincial and federal authorities pledging to continue efforts until full rehabilitation is achieved, officials say relief work will remain the government’s top priority in the weeks ahead.