Heavy monsoon rains persisted intermittently from Saturday night into Sunday across the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, causing widespread disruption. The downpour led to significant water accumulation in various locations, flooding underpasses in G-6 and turning streets in Chatta Bakhtawar into waterlogged pools.
Residents in Chatta Bakhtawar reported rainwater entering their homes, while flooding also affected houses in Sector C of the PWD area. In Rawalpindi, heavy rainfall caused water to accumulate on Jamia Masjid Road and Imambara Road, severely impacting traffic flow.
In a significant development, the water level of Nullah Lai at Katarian surged to 19 feet, prompting authorities to issue warnings for nearby residential neighborhoods. A rain emergency was declared in Rawalpindi, with Water and Sanitation Agency teams and heavy machinery deployed to manage water accumulation and potential flooding.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as further rainfall could cause the Nullah Lai water level to rise even more. The Islamabad district administration confirmed continuous surveillance of the situation, with drainage and dewatering operations underway since late night. Dewatering pumps have been installed in affected areas to expedite water removal.
Assistant commissioners conducted inspections of low-lying areas and nullahs to evaluate conditions and oversee drainage arrangements. Coordination between the administration and Islamabad Traffic Police aims to maintain smooth traffic flow on major roads despite the ongoing rain and waterlogging.
Preparations made ahead of the monsoon season included regular anti-encroachment drives and cleaning of nullahs to improve drainage capacity. A control room has been set up to respond promptly to complaints related to water accumulation. Citizens are advised to report waterlogging issues at 051-9108084 and to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
Officials stated that field teams and machinery will remain deployed in vulnerable areas to address waterlogging reports swiftly. Residents, especially those living near nullahs and in low-lying zones, have been urged to exercise caution as intermittent rain continues.
Rainfall measurements across Rawalpindi showed Saidpur receiving the highest amount at 85 millimeters, followed by Golra with 75mm, Shamsabad 65mm, Pirwadhai 64mm, Gawalmandi 62mm, and Bokra 50mm. The persistent rain has placed additional strain on the drainage systems in both cities, keeping authorities on high alert to manage urban flooding and any further rise in Nullah Lai’s water levels.
