Devastating monsoon rains cause widespread damage across northern Pakistan, toll rises to 233

Islamabad/ Lahore/ Kashmir: Heavy monsoon rains across Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and the Islamabad capital territory have resulted in significant destruction and loss of life, prompting emergency alerts and rescue operations nationwide.

According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the recent rains have claimed the lives of 233 people and injured 594 others.

The fatalities include 79 men, 42 women and 112 children. Over 804 houses have been completely destroyed across the country, highlighting the scale of the disaster.

In Murree, persistent rainfall caused trees to fall and blocked roads, with landslides reported at  Bostal Mor and Expressway areas, leading to minor injuries to three individuals. Rescue teams evacuated 11 vehicles and assisted stranded passengers.

In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, heavy downpour led to urban flooding, with water entering homes and prompting authorities to declare a rain emergency. Tragically, two individuals—Col. (R) Ishaq Qazi and his daughter—went missing after being swept away by a rain-fed stream in a housing society. Rescue operations are ongoing to locate them.

Low-lying areas have been submerged, causing widespread disruption. In Jhandaa Gali village, landslides damaged two houses but no casualties were reported.