Pakistan Monsoon Rains Cause Widespread Fatalities and Disruption

Torrential monsoon rains in Pakistan's Punjab province have resulted in at least 63 deaths and 290 injuries within a 24-hour period. The primary causes of fatalities were collapsing buildings, drowning, and electrocution. Authorities in Rawalpindi declared a public holiday and urged evacuations near a swelling river. This brings the total death toll since the monsoon began in late June to nearly 180, with children making up over half of the victims. The rains have also caused significant infrastructure disruption, including the closure of expressways and flight cancellations or delays. An emergency has been declared in several areas, with the Chief Minister urging adherence to safety guidelines.