250 dead, 20,000 injured across Rawalpindi in 2024

Rawalpindi: In 2024, a total of 250 people lost their lives, and approximately 20,000 were injured in various incidents across Rawalpindi district, including traffic accidents, fires, drowning, and building collapses. The damage extended to vehicles and properties worth millions of rupees.

According to annual statistics released by the Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122) Rawalpindi, the service received a staggering 507,478 emergency calls during the year. Of these, 70,068 calls were directly related to incidents such as road traffic accidents, fires, crimes, drowning, building collapses, gas cylinder explosions, medical emergencies, and other situations.

Road traffic accidents were the most reported incidents, with 17,520 cases resulting in 190 fatalities, 7,645 severe injuries, and 10,013 minor injuries. Victims included 15,003 men and 2,845 women, predominantly aged between 11 and 40 years. The primary causes of these accidents were speeding, reckless driving, one-wheeling, wrong turns, and tire bursts.

Fire-related incidents accounted for 1,768 calls, impacting 98 individuals. Among them, 11 people lost their lives, 36 were seriously injured, and 51 sustained minor injuries. The fires caused significant property damage, though timely intervention by Rescue 1122 prevented an estimated loss of 1,718 million rupees. The leading causes of fires included short circuits, cigarette negligence, gas leaks, and gas cylinder explosions. Additionally, 100 forest fires were reported during the year.

Rescue teams also responded to 1,698 crime-related emergencies, showcasing their critical role in supporting law enforcement. Meanwhile, there were 44 cases of drowning and 33 incidents involving building or roof collapses. Furthermore, 41 gas cylinder explosions were reported, underscoring the need for better safety measures.

In terms of medical emergencies, Rescue 1122 provided timely first aid and transported 41,698 medically ill individuals to nearby hospitals, saving countless lives. The service’s relentless efforts in responding to these incidents highlight its vital role in safeguarding public safety and mitigating the impact of tragedies.

The data underscores the pressing need for public awareness campaigns on road safety, fire prevention, and emergency preparedness. While Rescue 1122’s efforts remain commendable, proactive measures are essential to prevent such incidents in the future.