THE recent breach in the Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC) in Paharpur tehsil of Dera Ismail Khan has once again exposed the serious threat faced by communities living along the canal. Paharpur has witnessed canal breaches in the past that inundated nearby settlements, forcing families to leave their homes and causing considerable damage to houses, agricultural land and infrastructure.

Yet, despite repeated concerns raised by local residents through social media and official channels, several vulnerable sections of the canal remain in a precarious condition. The latest breach once again inundated populated areas, creating panic and forcing families to evacuate, some having to leave their cattle behind. Many residents are now uncertain about when they will be able to return to their homes.

The immediate priority should be to protect the affected population and all the settlements at risk. The authorities must also look beyond the present emergency. Several other weak points along the CRBC could cause similar devastation if they are left unattended.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and all the relevant authorities should conduct an urgent technical inspection of the canal banks, identify the vulnerable points and reinforce them. An early warning and emergency response mechanism should also be established for communities living close to the canal.

Preventive action is far less costly than repeatedly responding to disasters after they occur. The residents of Paharpur should not have to wait for another breach and potentially a greater tragedy before all such warnings are taken seriously.

Muhammad Maroof Hassan
Dera Ismail Khan

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2026