RAWALPINDI: A total of 16 people lost their lives, while 1,299 others sustained injuries in 1,204 road traffic accidents reported in Rawalpindi district during February, according to Rescue 1122. The emergency service confirmed that 569 individuals were seriously injured, while 730 suffered minor injuries in the incidents.
The majority of the accidents involved cars and motorcycles, with men accounting for 1,124 of the victims and women making up 191. The primary causes of the accidents included speeding, reckless driving, wrong turns, and tyre blowouts. Most victims were between the ages of 11 and 40, highlighting the vulnerability of younger road users.
Rescue teams responded promptly to all incidents, maintaining an efficient average response time. However, officials emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to reduce the frequency of such accidents. The Rescue Service Rawalpindi is actively working on initiatives to improve road safety, but public cooperation and adherence to traffic regulations remain critical.
In a separate incident, a man was found dead in his residence in the New Town area on Sunday. Initial police reports suggest the victim, identified as Malik Nadeem, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The discovery was made when family members returned home. Police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The rising number of road accidents in Rawalpindi underscores the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent further loss of life. Authorities continue to call for collective efforts to address the issue and ensure safer roads for all.
