By Israr Ahmad Orakzai
HANGU: Authorities accelerated emergency measures in tribal district Orakzai after recent cloudbursts and heavy rains caused widespread damage, with lawmakers visiting affected areas to assess losses and oversee relief efforts.
Member of the National Assembly Yousaf Khan and provincial assembly member Aurangzeb Khan, who also chairs the district development committee, visited the affected areas of Mushti Mela and Hassan Zai Dara in tehsil Central along with Additional Deputy Commissioner General Yasir Salman, the assistant commissioner of Lower Orakzai and other officials.
Officials conducted an initial assessment of damage caused by flooding and strong water currents to homes, shops, crops and water supply systems. They also held a jirga with local residents to gather first-hand information about losses, needs and immediate concerns.
Local elders raised reservations regarding damages and the urgency of assistance. The district administration assured them of full support, immediate relief and comprehensive rehabilitation measures.
During the visit, the performance of various departments, ongoing relief activities and recovery arrangements were reviewed in detail. Relevant institutions were directed to carry out operations in a timely, effective and coordinated manner to ensure early assistance to affected families.
Lawmakers and officials stressed the need for transparency, discipline and responsible governance, and said monitoring of relief activities would continue. Officials also praised personnel who had shown strong performance and called for further improvement in public service delivery.
District authorities said work was under way on a coordinated strategy to restore infrastructure and basic services in affected areas to ease the difficulties faced by residents.
