By Shoaib Sultan Khan
Having spent 12 years in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral while implementing the Agha Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP), I have developed empathy with the people of the area. My heart went out to the people of Attaabad, when I read on the Internet about the catastrophe that had struck them. On returning to Pakistan, I was yearning to commiserate with the people of Attaabad. I soon found out that the landslide and flooding had not only affected Attaabad, but also Sarrat, Ayeenabad-Shishkat, Gulmit, Lower Ghulkin, Hussaini and even Passu, encompassing 381 houses, including 147 of Attaabad and Sarrat. In fact, all the 19 deaths reported occurred in Attaabad Payeen.
Around 1,000 households, 10,000 individuals are affected. Indirectly, the submerging of KKH has broken the link between Upper and Central Hunza. Trade with China has halted, affecting employment of 6,000 individuals. Seven schools, 130 hotels, shops and businesses and three community centers are all inundated.
More: Daily Times – Leading News Resource of Pakistan – Attaabad victims await rehabilitation, assistance.
Ismailimail 