City Reporter
ISLAMABAD: In a tragic incident on Wednesday, at least 11 labourers were killed and six others injured when a building’s wall collapsed on Grand Trunk (GT) Road in Islamabad. The incident occurred as the area grappled with heavy monsoon rains, causing waterlogging and disruptions, raising concerns for the safety of residents.
According to Industrial Area I-9 Superintendent of Police (SP) Khan Zeb, rescue teams swiftly responded to the incident and managed to recover the bodies of the deceased from the rubble with the aid of machinery. The victims, identified as labourers, were immediately transported to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims). Dr. Mubashir Daha, spokesperson for Pims Executive Director Dr. Imran Sikander, confirmed the arrival of six injured individuals at the hospital. While one of them was discharged after receiving first aid, the remaining individuals were reported to be out of danger.
Efforts to search for any potential survivors trapped under the debris were still underway, with rescue operations in progress. In response to the incident, Pims hospital authorities have placed all doctors and paramedical staff on high alert, ensuring they are ready to tackle any emergencies resulting from the ongoing heavy rainfall in the twin cities.
Preliminary reports suggest that the collapse occurred when the building’s wall fell onto a tent that had been set up by the labourers. The workers were engaged in the construction of an underpass on GT Road, a project commissioned by the National Highway Authority (NHA). The incident took place in the presence of Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, Chief Commissioner Noorul Amin Mengal, and NHA officials at the construction site.
Chief Commissioner Mengal visited the site to assess the ongoing dewatering and search and rescue operations. He assured the public that all available resources were being utilized to provide assistance to those affected by the incident.
In an official statement, the NHA refuted claims that the collapsed wall was associated with the underpass structure. The authority affirmed that the underpass construction site and its walls were deemed safe and sound. Expressing sorrow over the tragic event, the NHA extended prayers to the deceased and their grieving families.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief and sorrow upon learning about the incident. He offered prayers for the souls of the departed and instructed the district administration to remain vigilant in light of the heavy rainfall affecting the region.
As investigations continue, the authorities emphasize the need for increased safety measures and vigilant response during the monsoon season to prevent further casualties and ensure the well-being of the residents in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
