The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is now using drones and smart rescue tech to help reach flood victims faster during the monsoon season. Spearheaded by CM Ali Amin Gandapur, this first-of-its-kind move involves heavy-lift drones that can fly in tough conditions, deliver up to 100 kg of emergency supplies, and monitor water levels from above.
The drones were handed over to Rescue 1122, who successfully tested them in mock flood drills along the Swat River. According to Bilal Faizi, “These drills prove we can respond faster and save more lives.”
But that’s not all—the KP government is stepping up in other ways:
-
Hotels in tourist zones must now keep life-saving gear
-
The Tourism Department has begun issuing real-time weather alerts
-
Authorities are taking action against unauthorized structures near rivers
-
Locals are being trained in basic safety and rescue skills
This multi-layered disaster readiness plan reflects a new era of climate adaptation, especially as flash floods become more frequent and deadly. Officials say the real goal is to prevent tragedy through quick action, planning, and innovation.
The PDMA says that while drone use is still being evaluated, early results are promising and could serve as a blueprint for national disaster response in the years ahead.