CHITRAL: The British High Commission was among the first organizations to provide relief efforts following the devastating floods in Chitral.
Between 29 July and 3 August, Chitral suffered severe damage due to torrential rains, flash floods and flooding from glacial lakes. 14 drinking water supply systems, 15 jeep bridges, 55 irrigation canals, 9 link roads, 3 school buildings, retaining walls (4,000 feet) and 20 local shops were completely/partially damaged.
The British High Commission used its existing presence in Chitral to respond to immediate needs through its partners, Concern Worldwide and the Agha Khan Foundation. They support emergency relief and the restoration of infrastructure and livelihoods.
So far, the UK has funded essential items such as kitchen sets, hygiene kits, water storage containers and more for around 300 families. Partners continue to work to immediately restore damaged drinking water systems, restore essential irrigation canals and remove debris to re-establish access and livelihoods. More than 20,000 people in Chitral are expected to benefit from UK support. The UK is also considering long-term recovery plans for affected areas in close coordination with government counterparts and humanitarian partners.
British High Commission Chargé d’affaires Andrew Dalgleish said:
“The recent floods in Chitral are devastating. Lives and livelihoods were destroyed. UK is here to support Pakistan. These floods are a stark reminder that much more needs to be done to improve Pakistan’s climate resilience.
This year, floods in Pakistan have already claimed 141 lives, injured 266 and damaged more than 1,000 houses. Climate change is a priority for the UK government. During the devastating floods of 2022, the UK helped more than 2.3 million people and donated a total of £39 million to UK aid. The British public mobilized and raised £41.5m as part of the Disasters Emergency Committee’s appeal. Support included emergency cash assistance, shelters, nutritional support, learning packages and infrastructure repairs.
The UK is focused on improving Pakistan’s climate resilience over the long term, rather than purely disaster response. The UK has already helped 1.5 million people improve their resilience to extreme climate events and aims to support a further 3 million people over the next 4-5 years.
