Various low-lying areas of Pakistan’s capital Islamabad and adjoining Rawalpindi have been submerged due to continuous heavy rainfall. On Tuesday morning, torrential rain disrupted normal life in both cities. In response to the situation, the administration has initiated emergency measures and begun evacuating residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department announced that due to heavy rainfall, the water level of Rawalpindi’s Leh Nullah has reached 29 feet in the Katarian area and 23.5 feet in Gawalmandi. Following approximately 200 millimeters of rainfall in the drain’s catchment area, efforts were launched to evacuate residents from these two localities.
Officials from Rescue 1122 reported that rescue operations are underway in various areas of Rawalpindi. Approximately 60 people have been moved to safety so far. Concurrently, efforts are ongoing to rescue residents trapped inside their homes in several areas.
According to the Meteorological Department, the highest rainfall of 201 millimeters was recorded in Shamsabad until 8:20 AM on Tuesday. New Katarian received 186 millimeters, Golra 157 millimeters, H-8/2 area 155 millimeters, and Saidpur 104 millimeters of rain. Additionally, Pir Wadhai recorded 86, Kacheri 74, and Bokra 72 millimeters of rainfall.
Due to the worsening situation, all educational institutions in Rawalpindi have been declared closed. The district administration has advised citizens to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary. Simultaneously, concerned emergency services have been placed on high alert.
Islamabad District Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon stated that due to excessive rainfall, the water level of Rawal Dam has exceeded its prescribed limit. Consequently, a decision was made to open the dam’s spillway at 2 PM on Tuesday. Citizens have also been warned not to approach drains or water flow paths.
Heavy rain has caused waterlogging on various roads in Islamabad, disrupting traffic. In some areas, drains have overflowed, bringing water onto the streets. In this situation, the traffic police have advised drivers to allow extra travel time, reduce vehicle speed, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Meanwhile, a wall collapse has been reported in Islamabad’s D-12 area amid heavy rain. However, no casualties have been reported in this incident. On the other hand, in the E-11 area, excessive rainfall has put pressure on the drainage system, leading to waterlogging in various localities.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has stated that rainfall may continue in the northern regions of the country until September 5. Consequently, there is a risk of urban flooding in various low-lying areas, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Source: Dawn
