Rawalpindi and Islamabad witnessed a heavy downpour on Monday, recording up to 70 millimetres of rainfall. The intense rain prompted authorities to enforce emergency measures, with civic agencies and rescue teams deployed across vulnerable areas.
Rainfall Records Across the Twin Cities
According to official rainfall data, Islamabad’s Saidpur received 40 millimetres, while Golra recorded 66 millimetres. In Rawalpindi, Shamsabad saw 25 millimetres, Pirwadhai registered 35 millimetres, and New Katarian recorded 60 millimetres.
Continuous monitoring of Nullah Lai and drainage channels is underway as water levels have risen significantly. At Katarian, water in Nullah Lai reached 13 feet, while at Gawalmandi, it stood at four feet.
Authorities Place Emergency Response in Motion
The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has imposed a rain emergency. Heavy machinery and staff are actively deployed in different areas. According to WASA officials, all precautionary steps have been taken to minimize flood risk.
Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar Cheema inspected several locations and confirmed that an advanced flood warning system has been activated. He added that civic bodies remain on high alert as the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast more heavy rainfall in the coming days.
Safety Precautions and Rescue Operations
Authorities urged residents to avoid visiting low-lying areas, drains, and water reservoirs due to the danger of sudden flooding. Rescue 1122 teams have been positioned in flood-prone neighbourhoods to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies.
Digital and manual monitoring systems are being used simultaneously to track water levels in sensitive areas. Staff and machinery are stationed strategically to ensure quick drainage where waterlogging occurs.
Monsoon Season Takes a Toll Nationwide
Pakistan is enduring a challenging monsoon season this year. So far, 863 people have lost their lives due to flood-related incidents, according to national disaster management figures. The eastern regions, home to nearly half of Pakistan’s 240 million population, have been particularly hard-hit.
The ongoing rains have caused widespread damage to agricultural land, affecting the country’s breadbasket region. With more torrential downpours expected this weekend, officials are preparing for further challenges in flood management and relief operations.
Authorities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad remain vigilant as heavy rainfall continues to threaten urban areas. With advanced warning systems, rescue teams, and emergency measures in place, efforts are focused on reducing risks to citizens while safeguarding infrastructure and agriculture against further damage.
