Cloudburst in Swabi
PESHAWAR
A notice was submitted in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly by PML-N member Sobia Shahid regarding alleged irregularities in relief distribution following a devastating cloudburst in Dalori Bala, Swabi. The incident caused significant damage, including loss of life and destruction of houses.
According to Sobia Shahid, Rs 1 million was distributed per affected house by the Assistant Commissioner, but she alleged that the funds were selectively granted to preferred individuals. She further claimed that some of the houses could have been rebuilt, but were unfairly excluded from compensation.
In response, PTI MPA Rangrez Khan stated that the provincial government promptly launched relief operations, although water-related challenges initially hampered access.
He added that villagers were largely satisfied with the government’s efforts, and members of the cross-party committee overseeing the relief also expressed confidence in the administration’s response.
He emphasized that while the amount of relief could be adjusted, houses built in vulnerable or unauthorized areas would not be allowed to be rebuilt.
Special Assistant on Housing, Dr. Amjad, also addressed the assembly, noting that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had doubled the compensation amount, ensuring that even partially damaged homes received financial aid. He clarified that the PDMA guidelines were being strictly followed and reaffirmed that illegally constructed homes or those on encroached land would not be rebuilt at the same location. The Chief Minister has directed authorities to relocate such homes to safer areas.
Shahid contested the fairness of the distribution, stating that both deserving and undeserving individuals received compensation, including the Speaker, whom she claimed was not among the affected.
