At least 11 workers killed in wall collapse near under-construction bridge in Islamabad
At least eleven workers were killed and five others were injured on Wednesday when a section of the outer wall of a vast compound collapsed near an under-construction bridge on the outskirts of Islamabad, Pakistan's capital.
The collapse occurred due to the weakening of the wall caused by heavy rains. The workers were sitting inside their roadside tents at the construction site when the incident happened.
This unfortunate incident occurred during the monsoon season, which has been bringing heavy rains to Pakistan since June 25. So far, the monsoon rains have resulted in the deaths of at least 112 people in various weather-related incidents. Moreover, the rains have caused rivers in eastern Punjab province to swell, leading to the flooding of hundreds of villages and the displacement of approximately 15,000 people.
The current monsoon season marks a return of heavy rains to Pakistan after a year when climate-induced downpours affected a significant portion of the country, resulting in the loss of 1,739 lives. The floods in 2022 also inflicted $30 billion in damage to the already financially strained nation.
Officials are investigating the cause of the collapse, but they believe that it was likely caused by the weakening of the wall due to heavy rains. The rains have caused widespread damage in Pakistan, and this is just one of the latest incidents.
The families of the victims have been offered compensation, and the injured workers are receiving medical treatment.
Authorities have warned of further rains in the coming days, and they have urged people to be careful. They have also warned that the rains could cause further damage to infrastructure and property. (ILKHA)