Rawalpindi and Islamabad are facing a rain emergency due to continuous heavy rainfall since last night. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) is on high alert, taking measures to minimize flooding’s impact.
Water Levels Surge in Nallah Lai and Canal
Nallah Lai’s water level has reached a critical point, posing a concern for authorities. However, the flow of water remains normal at the moment. Meanwhile, the canal’s water levels have significantly risen in various areas.
Rescue Operations and Evacuations Underway in Low-Lying Areas
With water entering streets and houses in low-lying areas, rescue operations and evacuations have been initiated. The Pakistan Army and Rescue 1122 are actively providing support to the affected residents.
In a rain emergency, Rawalpindi and Islamabad are grappling with heavy rainfall since the previous night. The region faces torrential downpours, leading to the declaration of an emergency by authorities. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) in Rawalpindi is on high alert, deploying heavy machinery and personnel in low-lying areas to facilitate drainage and mitigate flooding.
One of the primary concerns lies with Nallah Lai’s water level, which has reached a critical point. Nonetheless, authorities have confirmed that the water flow remains within normal parameters. In the canal, water levels have risen significantly, measuring 5 feet at Katarian and 4 feet at Gwalmandi bridge.
To address the situation, the Managing Director (MD) of WASA, Muhammad Tanveer, is personally overseeing water extraction in the affected areas. Despite the challenges, the underpass at Committee Chowk is managing traffic flow, ensuring minimal disruption in transportation.
Rawalpindi alone recorded 186 mm of rain, with Shamsabad reporting the highest rainfall at 188 mm, followed by 138 mm in Bokra, 103 mm in Golra, and 79 mm in Chaklala. As a consequence of rising water levels, many streets and houses, particularly in poorly maintained drain areas, have been inundated.
The commissioner of Rawalpindi division has issued evacuation orders in areas like Katarian and Gwalmandi, where water levels are dangerously rising, putting all relevant agencies on high alert.
The Pakistan Army has been summoned to assist the district administration, especially around Nala Lai, and both Rescue 1122 and the Pakistan Army are actively providing relief and support to affected residents.
Weather experts predict that heavy downpours will persist, with more rain expected in the region. The public is urged to cooperate with authorities and exercise caution during this weather crisis.
