Rain-related accidents claim six lives as four electrocuted in Shahdara and two perish in roof collapse on Bedian Road; authorities initiate investigations and issue safety alerts.
Electrocution Incident in Shahdara
On Wednesday, four men were electrocuted to death in the Shahdara area of Lahore while installing a hoarding on the rooftop of a building during rainfall. The incident took place on Daulat Khan Road, where the victims were working on an iron frame that accidentally came in contact with high-voltage electricity lines passing close to the rooftop.
According to Rescue 1122 and Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) officials, all four men died instantly due to the massive electric shock. Rescue teams responded quickly and transported the deceased to Mayo Hospital for legal formalities.
In a subsequent statement, Lesco attributed the electrocution to “negligence” by the shopkeeper who commissioned the hoarding installation without taking safety precautions or notifying Lesco. The company stated that no formal request or permission had been sought prior to the activity.
In response, Lesco Chief Executive Ramzan Butt ordered a formal inquiry into the incident to determine accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future. He expressed sorrow over the loss of life and urged citizens to follow proper procedures when conducting work near power lines.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed grief over the deaths, offered condolences to the families, and demanded a comprehensive report from the concerned departments. She emphasized the need for greater vigilance and safety enforcement during the ongoing monsoon season.
Roof Collapse in Meher Town
In a separate incident on the same day, two men lost their lives when the roof of a house collapsed in Meher Town near Bedian Road, also in Lahore. The collapse occurred during heavy rain, which is suspected to have weakened the already fragile structure.
The deceased were identified as Adil, aged 25, and Goga, aged 45. Two others were injured in the incident — one identified as Rasheed and another yet to be identified. They were rushed to Avicenna Medical Hospital for emergency medical care.
The roof collapse highlights the risks posed by deteriorating or weak infrastructure during periods of intense rainfall, especially in under-maintained residential areas.
Rainfall and City-Wide Impact
While the rain brought some relief from heat and made the weather pleasant across the city, it also caused hazards. According to the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), Nishtar Town received the highest rainfall, recording 8mm, while other areas of Lahore experienced only light rain or traces of it.
Elsewhere in Punjab, heavier rainfall was recorded:
- Gujrat: 86mm
- Narowal: 37mm
- Multan: 28mm
- DG Khan: 27mm
- Jhelum: 22mm
Other affected regions include Sialkot, Rawalpindi, Murree, Mianwali, and Kot Addu.
Provincial Alert and Flood Situation
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that this was the sixth spell of monsoon rainfall, expected to continue across Punjab until August 7. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia issued instructions for all district administrations to remain on high alert.
Current river and dam statuses are as follows:
- Indus River: Low-level flood at Tarbela
- Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa: Normal flow
- Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, Sutlej Rivers: Normal levels
- Tarbela Dam: 95% full
- Mangla Dam: 62% full
- Indian Dams: 56% full
The PDMA emphasized that while there is no immediate high-flood threat, the situation is being closely monitored, especially with more rain expected in the coming days.
Authorities warned citizens to take extra precautions and avoid entering rainwater drains, low-lying areas, rivers, and canals, particularly for children. The PDMA also reminded the public to report any hazardous situations to local emergency services.
Cumulative Damage and Casualties
The ongoing monsoon season has caused significant human and material losses across the province. In the last 24 hours alone, six people died and three others were injured due to rain-related accidents.
Overall statistics reported by the PDMA for the monsoon season to date include:
- 164 fatalities due to various incidents
- 582 individuals injured
- 216 houses damaged
- 121 livestock killed
The Punjab government has confirmed that financial aid is being extended to affected families as per disaster relief protocols.
