ISLAMABAD: Several people were killed in the last 24 hours in Punjab province amid devastating rains. At least 54 people have died in the past 24 hours across Punjab due to monsoon havoc, bringing Pakistan’s total monsoon death toll to 178.
The monsoon havoc has severely disrupted life in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, triggering flash floods, overflowing drains, and inundating entire neighbourhoods.
In Rawalpindi, hours of continuous rain caused Nullah Lai to swell dangerously, with floodwaters sweeping away vehicles and submerging low-lying areas. Authorities issued evacuation alerts for residents in Katarian and Gawalmandi as a precautionary measure.
Rescue teams shifted people to safe locations amid heavy monsoon rains and floods in Punjab.
The Rawalpindi administration declared Thursday a public holiday to keep residents indoors, while the Pakistan Meteorological Department warned of continued heavy rain through Friday.
Islamabad also bore the brunt of the storm. Several homes experienced basement flooding, and landslides were reported near the Bari Imam shrine area.
Emergency Declared After 450mm Rainfall
A rain emergency has been declared in several districts including Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Islamabad. The Meteorological Department reported intense rainfall, with Chakwal receiving 450mm in a short period. The extreme weather led to the collapse of a small dam at Dherabi, unleashing floodwaters into nearby villages.
Roads and bridges in affected rural areas have been damaged or washed away, leaving dozens of communities isolated. The historic Katas Raj temple complex was also flooded.
Authorities remain on high alert as forecasts predict further rainfall into the night.
NDMA issues another alert
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for heavy rainfall across multiple regions of the country in the next 24 hours. NDMA cautioned people against the risks of urban flooding and overflowing rivers and streams.
According to an NDMA spokesperson, strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy downpours are expected over the next 12 hours in Lahore, Chakwal, Attock, Jhelum, and Khushab. Similar weather conditions are forecast for Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad, while heavy rains are also likely in Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Hafizabad.
In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, intermittent heavy rainfall is projected to persist for the next 24 to 48 hours, increasing the threat of flash floods and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
The NDMA emphasized that preventive measures are being implemented in coordination with provincial and local authorities. Citizens have been urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, and fast-flowing streams, and follow official advisories to ensure their safety.
Meanwhile, Over 18 hours long heavy monsoon rains brought devastation to Rawalpindi and Islamabad, flooding streets, homes, and triggering emergency responses across the twin cities.
Rawalpindi recorded 237mm of rainfall, causing Nullah Lai to overflow and submerging a bridge over the Swan River. Flooding also hit the Sangjani area, prompting authorities to shut down Motorway M-1 from Islamabad Interchange to Burhan Interchange. Residents in low-lying areas have been urged to evacuate to safer locations as water has inundated homes, shops, and streets, turning many roads into rivers.
At least 24 people were reported trapped in the floodwaters, with 11 rescued so far. In one incident, a car was swept away by a flooded drain. In response, Rawalpindi authorities have declared a rain emergency and announced a one-day public holiday. Heavily affected areas include Chaklala, Bokra, and Golra, which remain submerged.
