Heavy rain disrupted normal life across Lahore on Saturday, flooding low-lying areas, major roads and several underpasses while power outages added to the difficulties faced by residents.
According to rainfall data released by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), Lahore received an average of 24.6mm of rain, with the highest rainfall of 104mm recorded at the airport. Kahna received 75.6mm, while Hadiara Defence Road recorded 62.6mm and Manawan received 58.6mm.
The heavy downpour caused water to accumulate on several roads and in low-lying areas, making movement difficult for motorists and pedestrians. Traffic was disrupted at various locations as commuters struggled to pass through waterlogged roads and underpasses.
Several parts of the city, including Farrukhabad, Tajpura, Defence Phase-VI, Shadipura, Saggian, Lakshmi Chowk and surrounding areas, received significant rainfall. Harbanspura and other localities also experienced heavy showers.
While the rain provided relief from the prevailing heat and brought cooler weather to the city, accumulated rainwater created serious inconvenience for residents and highlighted the challenges faced by Lahore’s low-lying areas during intense monsoon spells.
WASA Lahore deployed field teams, heavy machinery and dewatering equipment to drain accumulated rainwater from affected locations. Officials said disposal stations in areas experiencing power outages were being operated on generators so that drainage operations could continue without interruption.
WASA Managing Director Ghufran Ahmed inspected drainage operations at several key locations, including Mubeen Shaheed Underpass, Noor Jehan Road, MM Alam Road, Main Boulevard Gulberg, Qaddafi Stadium, Liberty Chowk and Kalma Chowk Underpass. Officials were directed to remain in the field until rainwater was completely drained.
Traffic police also remained active across the city and directed officers to monitor low-lying areas and traffic conditions. Authorities advised motorists to drive carefully, maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden braking because roads had become slippery.
Motorcyclists were urged to wear helmets and avoid unnecessary overtaking. Citizens were also advised to check the depth of accumulated water before entering flooded roads and to avoid areas where water levels appeared unsafe.
The traffic police further warned residents to stay away from electric poles, transformers, fallen power lines, trees, weak walls and under-construction structures during rainfall to avoid accidents.
With monsoon activity continuing, authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious and follow safety instructions while drainage and traffic management teams continue operations across Lahore.
