Restoring Hope in Buner: Chakor Foundation Stands With Flood-Affected Families

This year, Pakistan has faced an overwhelming impact of climate change, with unpredictable and extreme weather events disrupting the lives of many across the country. Among the most devastating events was the monsoon season of 2025, which saw catastrophic floods, particularly in northern Pakistan. The worst-hit district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) was Buner, where flash floods between August 14 and 15, 2025, resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life.

The flash floods in Buner were triggered by a rare and intense cloudburst. Heavy rainfall exceeded 150 mm within a short span of time, causing rivers to overflow and landslides to sweep across the region. 

The steep, erosion-prone terrain of Buner, combined with the effects of deforestation and climate change, made the district especially vulnerable to such extreme weather events. In a matter of hours, the floodwaters submerged entire villages, including Qadar Nagar, Beshouni, Gokun, Malikpur, and Chagarzi, causing widespread damage.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the floods in Buner led to at least 208 confirmed deaths, with many others still missing. Over 2,300 homes were completely destroyed, and 413 homes were partially damaged. 

In addition, the floods resulted in the loss of approximately 4,054 livestock, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of thousands of families. Key infrastructure, including two police stations and several bridges, was either washed away or severely damaged, making it difficult for rescue operations to access the most affected areas.

The situation has been dire for the residents of Buner. The floods also devastated agricultural lands, rendering approximately 80% of the region’s farmland unusable. With the destruction of homes, livelihoods, and infrastructure, the affected families are now facing a long road to recovery. 

The need for humanitarian assistance remains urgent in the midst of the crisis. Displaced families are in desperate need of food, clean water, medical supplies, and shelter, while the region faces a growing risk of waterborne diseases due to contamination.

Government and non-governmental organizations are supporting the ongoing relief efforts. The Chakor Foundation, in collaboration with the Al Amaan Foundation, has donated Rs. 2 crore to assist in the recovery efforts. 

This contribution will help provide immediate relief to 100 families in the hardest-hit villages, offering tents for shelter, food supplies, and other essential resources.

Muhammad Abbas Khan, the CEO of Chakor Foundation, stated, “We understand the hardships these families are facing and are dedicated to assisting them in restoring their homes and livelihoods.” 

Despite these initial relief efforts, the people of Buner remain in urgent need of further assistance, and the path to rebuilding their homes and communities will require sustained support from both local and international organizations.

The floods in Buner serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of many regions in northern Pakistan to extreme weather events. The district’s long-term recovery will require not only infrastructure rebuilding and agricultural restoration but also the implementation of climate-resilient practices to mitigate the effects of future disasters.

As efforts continue, humanitarian organizations and the government are calling for increased donations and resources to help the affected families rebuild their lives. The road to recovery is long, but with continued support, the people of Buner hope to restore their homes and livelihoods.