RAWALPINDI: Torrential rain battered Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Tuesday, causing widespread urban flooding, disrupting traffic and forcing authorities to place emergency services on high alert.
Around 200 millimetres of rain was recorded in Rawalpindi, while Islamabad’s E-11 sector received about 150mm within a short period. Shamsabad recorded around 201mm, while New Katarian received 186mm.
The intense rainfall caused the water level in Nullah Lai to rise sharply, forcing authorities to issue evacuation alerts for residents living along the watercourse and in low-lying areas. The situation later began to improve as water levels started falling.
Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir said water from tributary drains was backing up because of the rising level in Nullah Lai, causing flooding in nearby residential areas.
Several localities, including Shamsabad, Sadiqabad, Awan Colony, Jamia Masjid Road, Javed Colony, Habib Colony and Dhoke Farman Ali, were affected. In some areas, water reportedly reached around three feet in streets, forcing residents to move household belongings to safer locations.
The Rawalpindi administration also announced a public holiday, closing educational institutions across the city because of the severe weather and flooding.
60 people evacuated
Rescue 1122 teams responded to multiple emergencies across Rawalpindi. According to the rescue service, 60 people were safely evacuated during operations.
Thirty passengers were rescued from Rahimabad Bridge, while eight people each were evacuated from Kuri Road and Dhoke Kala Khan. Six women were moved to safety from Darul Aman, while three people were rescued from Dhok Najju.
Rescue teams continued operations at several locations, including New Phagwari, Arya Mohalla and Dhok Najju. A woman stranded in a rickshaw on Band Khanna Road was also reported to be awaiting rescue.
Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and warned parents to keep children away from Nullah Lai, storm-water drains and electricity poles.
Islamabad also affected
In Islamabad, heavy rain caused drains to overflow and water to accumulate on major roads. The Islamabad Expressway was among the affected routes, while rainwater also entered a commercial centre in I-8 and several basements.
A protective wall collapsed in D-12/2, although authorities reported no loss of life or property from the incident.
Dewatering operations were launched under the supervision of Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, with additional pumps deployed in affected areas.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi WASA and cantonment authorities deployed teams, machinery and emergency resources in low-lying areas. Officials said the situation was improving as Nullah Lai levels continued to fall, but residents were advised to remain cautious until the threat had completely subsided.
