Colleges and universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s winter zone will remain closed from August 19 to 25, 2025, after authorities warned of severe monsoon activity across the region. The Higher Education Department (HED) said the temporary shutdown was necessary to protect students and staff amid forecasts of torrential rain, cloudbursts, and possible landslides.
Why the Closure Was Ordered
Officials explained that the decision was a precautionary measure as flash floods and landslides are expected in several districts. With large parts of the province already struggling from earlier downpours, the risk of further casualties and damage remains high.
To minimize disruption, universities and colleges have been instructed to shift to online classes wherever feasible. The provincial education minister also confirmed that the government is preparing relief support for institutions that may suffer flood-related damage.
Rain Havoc Spreads to Azad Kashmir
The weather emergency is not confined to KP. In Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, continuous rainfall has cut off key routes, forcing authorities to suspend classes in schools until August 23. Roads in areas such as Tine Dhalkot and Toli Pir have been blocked by landslides, leaving many villages isolated. Residents say daily movement has become nearly impossible, with even essential supplies struggling to reach some communities.
Rising Death Toll from Monsoon Disaster
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), 325 people have lost their lives across Pakistan due to the ongoing monsoon spells, with KP bearing the brunt of the devastation. Buner district alone reported 217 deaths, including women and children. Over 339 homes have been damaged—106 of them completely destroyed—while thousands of residents have been displaced.
The worst-hit districts include Swat, Buner, Bajaur, Mansehra, Shangla, and Battagram, where rescue teams are working around the clock to clear roads and move stranded families to safer ground. Hospitals in the region remain on high alert as injuries mount.
Flood Levels in Rivers and Streams
Fresh monitoring reports highlight the continuing danger:
- Jindi River, Charsadda: Low-level flood (9,851 cusecs)
- Naranji Nallah, Swabi: Medium-level flood (11,662 cusecs)
- Kalpani Nallah, Mardan: Normal flow (17,441 cusecs)
- Dor River, Haripur: Low-level flood (14,214 cusecs)
Schools in Azad Kashmir Also Shut
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, authorities have also announced holidays in all public and private schools from August 19 to 24 due to safety concerns. The district administration has urged residents and tourists to avoid rivers, streams, and mountainous routes, warning that even routine activities like collecting firewood could turn deadly during the current spell.
