RAWALPINDI: Torrential rainfall in Rawalpindi and Islamabad has pushed the water level in Nullah Lai above the danger mark, raising concerns over urban flooding in low-lying areas. Authorities have placed emergency response teams on alert and called in the Pakistan Army to assist with operations around Gawalmandi.
Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir said the city received around 200 millimetres of rain, making Tuesday’s rainfall the heaviest recorded in Rawalpindi in the past three years. The intense downpour placed significant pressure on Nullah Lai and several drains connected to the waterway.
According to the deputy commissioner, several drains experienced backflow as the water level in Nullah Lai rose. The resulting pressure caused water to spill into surrounding areas, increasing the risk of flooding in nearby residential localities.
The water level at Katarian reportedly reached its highest point, putting additional pressure on the Gawalmandi area. Authorities dispatched evacuation teams to vulnerable and low-lying areas as a precautionary measure.
Nadeem Nasir said the situation could gradually improve as the water level in Nullah Lai began to fall. He expressed hope that conditions would start improving within an hour, allowing accumulated rainwater to drain from affected areas.
The district administration, Pakistan Army, Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments are coordinating emergency response and relief efforts. Officials said they remained on alert and were monitoring water levels and vulnerable locations across the city.
Heavy rain also caused water accumulation at several locations, while the district administration announced a holiday for educational institutions in city areas due to flooding and difficult road conditions.
Residents, particularly those living near Nullah Lai and in low-lying areas, have been urged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and follow instructions issued by the district administration and rescue agencies.
