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Flood Alerts Silenced: Vandalism Strikes KPK Early Warning Network
16 Jun
Summary
- Early warning systems in Kumrat and Mankial valleys have been damaged and stolen.
- Solar panels, batteries, and sensors are among the stolen and destroyed equipment.
- The defence ministry has expressed concern and urged a crackdown on vandalism.
Early warning systems in the glaciated Kumrat and Mankial valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been repeatedly vandalized and components stolen, severely disrupting flood and Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (Glof) communication. Approximately 14 systems in Kumrat Valley and a few in Mankial Valley have stopped transmitting vital data to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The damaged and stolen equipment includes essential parts like solar panels, batteries, and various sensors. Officials have noted that these destructive incidents have become frequent, even after recent repairs. The defence ministry has expressed grave concern over the repeated sabotage of the Glof-II project's early warning infrastructure, urging the provincial government to take decisive action.
Officials emphasize that without greater community awareness and participation, the long-term sustainability of these systems is uncertain. The recurring vandalism compromises the objective of providing timely disaster warnings to local populations. Enhanced coordination between district administrations, law enforcement, and the PMD is now being sought to improve security measures for critical installations.
