Muhammad Irshad Ullah
Torrential rains and flash floods have triggered a severe water crisis in Barenis, Lower Chitral, cutting off access to clean drinking and irrigation water for hundreds of residents.
As the community struggles with contaminated water and growing illness, residents have called upon authorities to act urgently before the situation turns into a full-scale public health emergency.
Floodwaters damaged key water supply systems and polluted natural sources, forcing locals to rely on unsafe water. Health workers and residents report a sharp rise in cases of diarrhea, cholera and skin infections, especially among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
“We’ve been drinking muddy water for days – people are getting sick, and no medical help has arrived,” said one resident while talking to ChitralToday. “It feels like we’ve been forgotten.”
Community members initially tried to manage the crisis through self-help efforts, but the scale of destruction quickly overwhelmed their resources. Facing worsening conditions, they are now pleading with the provincial government and aid organizations to restore clean water, send medical teams, and provide emergency irrigation to protect their crops and livelihoods.
“This is not about politics – it’s about survival,” said a local elder. “We’re pleading with the government to act now, before lives are lost.”
Residents warned that inaction could escalate the crisis and strain the region’s already limited healthcare infrastructure. They continue to press for swift and coordinated action to restore basic services and prevent further suffering.