Manan Mandokhail, Syed Ali Shah, News Desk:
Hanna Urak, a suburban area of Quetta, finds itself reeling in the aftermath of devastating floods, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. Recent torrential rains triggered flash floods, wreaking havoc not only in Quetta but also in various parts of Balochistan.
Muhammad Iqbal, a resident of Hanna Urak, expressed his anguish as he recounted the loss of his home to the raging waters. “My house was completely swept away by the floods,” he lamented, tears welling in his eyes. Tragically, such floods have claimed the lives of nine individuals across Balochistan.
The aftermath of the floods has left many homeless and disillusioned with the response from authorities. Iqbal, reflecting on years of effort to build his home, described the heartbreak of seeing it reduced to rubble within moments.
In response to the crisis, the Balochistan government has declared a state of urban flood emergency. This declaration led to the closure of all public and private schools in Quetta and surrounding areas, with government employees and officers placed on duty to address the situation.
Amidst the chaos, affected individuals like Muhammad Iqbal plea for basic necessities such as shelter and food, relying on the support of relatives and neighbors. Unfortunately, this is not the first time Hanna Urak has faced such devastation, with memories of floods ravaging the valley just two years prior.
Adding to the woes of the region, the road leading to the picturesque Hanna Urak valley remains in a dire state, causing inconvenience to tourists and locals alike. Muhammad Qasim, a visitor, voiced his frustration over the lack of progress in repairing the road, which has been impassable for two years.
Calls for action have been directed towards Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, urging him to address the dire condition of the road and ensure the restoration of access to this popular tourist destination. With Hanna Urak renowned for its lush green orchards and pleasant weather, the need for swift action is paramount to support both local residents and the tourism industry.
