The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) of Lahore has been placed on heightened alert following recent rainfall in the city. In response, field teams have been swiftly deployed to ensure the prompt removal of accumulated water from streets and public areas, aiming to prevent flooding and traffic disruptions. This proactive approach reflects the agency’s commitment to maintaining urban infrastructure and safeguarding residents during the monsoon season.
Under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore, all water disposal stations across the city have been fully activated. Heavy machinery and pumps are operational around the clock to facilitate efficient drainage. Authorities have emphasized the importance of keeping major thoroughfares, underpasses, and low-lying neighborhoods clear to ensure smooth vehicular movement and avoid any inconvenience to commuters.
Teams on the ground have been instructed to maintain constant vigilance throughout the ongoing rainfall spell. Their responsibilities include monitoring water levels, swiftly addressing blockages, and operating disposal units at maximum capacity. The DC Lahore has reassured citizens that every effort is underway to minimize the impact of the rains and prevent waterlogging that could hamper daily life. Additionally, residents have been urged to exercise caution by avoiding contact with electrical wires and poles, highlighting safety concerns during wet weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather outlook indicating partly cloudy skies accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers across various parts of the country on Thursday. The forecast specifically highlights regions such as Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Islamabad, and the Pothohar plateau as areas likely to experience rainfall, with some locations also facing the possibility of hailstorms.
Breaking down the forecast regionally, Islamabad and its surrounding areas are expected to see intermittent showers with gusty winds and occasional hail in isolated spots. In Punjab, the PMD predicts rain combined with strong winds and thundershowers in districts including Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Mianwali, Jhelum, Gujrat, Lahore, Gujranwala, Murree, and the Galiyat region. Other parts of Punjab are expected to remain largely dry during this period.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rainfall accompanied by gusty winds and thundershowers is anticipated in areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Bajaur. Some of these locations may also witness hail, adding to the intensity of the weather. Conversely, Sindh and most districts of Balochistan are forecasted to experience hot and dry conditions, with no significant rainfall expected.
The northern territories of Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to remain partly cloudy, with intermittent rain showers and strong winds predicted. These weather patterns are typical for this time of year and underscore the varied climatic conditions across Pakistan. As the monsoon season progresses, authorities and residents alike are advised to stay alert and prepared for sudden changes in weather.