At least 15 people were feared dead after a powerful cloudburst struck Dalori Gadoon in Swabi, submerging homes and triggering landslides in the mountainous area, officials confirmed on Monday. Swabi Deputy Commissioner (DC) Nasrullah said 12 houses were completely submerged as heavy water flow swept through the village. The powerful torrents caused significant destruction, leaving many families stranded.

According to initial reports, multiple casualties are feared as houses collapsed under the pressure of water. Being a mountainous region, Dalori Gadoon also experienced landslides at several points, further complicating rescue operations. Roads leading to the affected areas were partially blocked, delaying relief efforts.  

“The flow of water is extremely fast due to the cloudburst,” the DC said, adding that machinery and rescue teams have been dispatched to clear blocked routes.Moreover, a landslide in Bada Gadoon resulted in vehicles being buried under the debris. Several vehicles were trapped due to heavy rocks and mudslides, as per local sources. Rescue teams from Haripur and Mardan were called in to assist local authorities.

The DC confirmed that the assistant commissioner, Civil Defense, police, and volunteers had also reached the site.  Emergency measures have been taken at nearby hospitals, with medicines, camps, and relief supplies prepared for victims.Govt monitoring situation Deputy Commissioner Nasrullah said that the chief minister and chief secretary are personally monitoring the situation.  He urged citizens to come forward and voluntarily assist the affected families.

“This is a critical time, and people should join hands to support those who have lost everything,” he appealed. The district administration has expressed concern that the death toll may rise as search and rescue teams continue to retrieve people trapped under debris and collapsed houses. Officials warned residents in nearby villages to remain cautious as the risk of further landslides and flash floods remains high.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)