Rawalpindi and Islamabad experienced persistent heavy rainfall on Wednesday, leading to a significant rise in water levels in Nullah Lai. This prompted authorities to intensify surveillance of waterways and vulnerable low-lying zones to mitigate flood risks.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that rain began around 1 a.m. and continued through the morning hours, with an average accumulation of 75.44 millimeters recorded by 7:10 a.m. on August 12. Golra recorded the highest rainfall at 113 millimeters, followed by Saidpur Village with 71 millimeters, New Katarian at 59 millimeters, PMD H-8/2 with 57 millimeters, and Pirwadhai at 51 millimeters.
Other areas such as Bokra, Shamsabad, and Gawalmandi each received 45 millimeters of rain, while Kacheri-Chaklala recorded 33 millimeters.
The heavy downpour caused water levels in Nullah Lai to surge, reaching 21.5 feet at Katarian and 17.5 feet at Gawalmandi, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA). In response, warning sirens were activated for residents in high-risk areas, and precautionary evacuation efforts were initiated in Katarian and Gawalmandi.
WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan emphasized that the situation along Nullah Lai and the city’s drainage system was under constant observation. All field teams were placed on high alert, with disposal stations, dewatering equipment, and heavy machinery fully operational to address any emergencies.
Teams were actively responding to reports of water accumulation at various locations, with field officers instructed to remain on-site to supervise drainage operations closely.
The agency advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the rainfall and to steer clear of Nullah Lai, other streams, drains, and low-lying areas. Parents were specifically urged to keep children away from drains, rainwater pools, and open manholes to prevent accidents.
Authorities also appealed to the public not to dispose of waste in drains and sewers, warning that blockages could exacerbate urban flooding during heavy rains.
Following a reduction in rainfall, WASA officials noted that water levels in Nullah Lai had started to recede. However, continuous monitoring remains in place to ensure prompt response should water levels rise again.
