Rain-Related Incidents in Punjab
At least 20 people died in rain-related incidents in Punjab over the last 24 hours, according to a statement issued by Rescue 1122 on Monday afternoon.
The statement, provided by Farooq Ahmed, the spokesperson for the provincial emergency service, stated that the deaths were attributed to electrocution, drowning, and lightning.
In Narowal, five people died, while two deaths occurred in Sheikhupura due to lightning strikes. Additionally, seven people drowned in the province, and six deaths were caused by electrocution.
The statement mentioned that incidents of wall and roof collapse resulted in injuries to 10 people in Lahore, three in Chiniot, and one in Sheikhupura. Furthermore, seven individuals sustained injuries from being struck by lightning.
A total of 61 cases of electrocution were reported, out of which 54 received immediate medical aid.
Raza Ahmad Rumi, a journalist and author, shared pictures of flooded roads in Lahore's Garden Town, highlighting the failure of urban development and dysfunctional municipal governance.
Nighat Dad, a digital rights activist, shared a video of Lahore's Captain Mubeen Shaheed Underpass where a vehicle was submerged in water up to the roof, questioning the local government's plan for monsoon and urban flooding.
In response to the rain situation, additional traffic wardens were deployed by the Lahore traffic police on busy roads and low-lying areas of the city. Forklifts were also deployed at various locations, as stated by City Traffic Officer (CTO) Mustansir Feroz.
The Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and the interim Chief Minister issued directives to the provincial government and district administration to take immediate steps for draining the standing water and ensuring the safety of the citizens.
Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi directed the relevant authorities to stay alert and take necessary measures for drainage, traffic flow, and prevention of further incidents due to heavy rains.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed grief over the deaths caused by lightning in Punjab.

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