Pakistan rains death toll rises to at least 200

At least 202 people, including 96 children, have died across Pakistan since the monsoon rains began in late June, according to a report by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) released on Saturday. The relentless rains have caused flash floods, house collapses, and widespread destruction.

Punjab suffered the highest number of casualties — 123 lives lost. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded 40 deaths, followed by Sindh with 21, Balochistan with 16, and one each in Islamabad and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Causes of Death

• 118 people died in house collapses.

• 30 people lost their lives in flash floods.

• Other deaths were caused by electrocution, landslides, drowning, and lightning strikes.

Over 560 people have been injured, including 182 children, in incidents related to the heavy rains.

Rawalpindi faced severe flooding. Areas like Dhamial, Hathi Chowk, and Morgah were submerged. In Tench Bhata and Fauji Colony, the floodwater rose so high that people were forced to evacuate their homes, leaving everything behind.

One of the victims was eight-year-old Hasan Ali. His father said they never expected such a tragedy. Entire families are in mourning.

Faisalabad also saw destruction. In just two days, 11 people died and 60 others were injured in 33 incidents. Most deaths were due to houses collapsing. Many of these homes were already damaged and could not withstand the heavy rain.

In Chakwal, over 32 roads were washed away after the area received 450mm of rain. In Khewal village, a father and son were killed when their house collapsed. Power and communication remain cut off in many areas.

Rescue Work Ongoing

Rescue teams and heavy machinery have been sent to Jhelum, Pind Dadan Khan, Kallar Kahar, and nearby areas on the orders of the Punjab chief minister. In Karoli Dhoke Bridge, damaged roads have been temporarily repaired to restore traffic.

The monsoon crisis has brought unbearable loss to many families. With more rain expected in the coming weeks, the danger is not over yet.