Flash floods damage infrastructure in Mansehra as monsoon rains intensify

MANSEHRA, Jul 20 (APP): Flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains damaged bridges, homes and businesses in Kaghan and Siran valleys of Mansehra district on Monday, while authorities intensified emergency response measures amid forecasts of more rain across Hazara Division this week.

According to the district administration, a flash flood struck the local Katha stream in Darmiana village of Kaghan Valley at around 2 p.m. on Sunday after torrential rainfall.

The flood washed away four temporary wooden bridges and caused water to accumulate behind a concrete causeway, raising fears of flooding in nearby low-lying residential areas.

The district administration immediately mobilized Rescue 1122, the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA), revenue officials and other relevant departments. An early warning system was activated, while announcements through local mosques urged residents in vulnerable areas to move to safer locations.

Officials said the accumulated water was eventually released after the pressure caused the concrete causeway to collapse, averting a potentially major disaster. However, floodwater entered several houses and shops before the obstruction gave way, causing partial damage. No casualties were reported.

Initial estimates indicated that two concrete bridges or causeways were damaged or destroyed, four wooden bridges were washed away, and several houses and shops sustained partial damage. A detailed assessment of losses to homes, businesses and public infrastructure is underway.

The district administration also acknowledged the role of Village Council Secretary Jawad Ahmed, who actively assisted rescue teams during evacuation and emergency coordination.

In a separate incident, another flash flood hit the Moli Katha area of Siran Valley on Saturday morning following heavy rainfall in the catchment area. The flood partially damaged two to three houses and one hotel. Rescue and district administration teams responded promptly, and no loss of life was reported. A detailed damage assessment is in progress.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast strong winds, thunderstorms and intermittent monsoon rains across Mansehra and other upper parts of Hazara Division from July 21 to 26. Intermittent rainfall continues in Kaghan, Siran and the upper Konsh Valley, resulting in increased water levels in seasonal streams and the Kunhar River.

Rescue personnel have been deployed to monitor rivers, streams, flood-prone locations and landslide-sensitive areas, while public awareness campaigns are also underway. In Balakot, rescue teams remained on duty throughout the night, assisting stranded motorists, monitoring water levels, clearing blocked roads and restoring traffic.