Heavy rain: Rawal Dam spillways reopened

ISLAMABAD: The ongoing monsoon downpour caused Rawal Dam to fill up on Tuesday, prompting the Capital Development Authority to reopen spillways again at 11am today.

The dam’s water level has crossed 1,750 feet, triggering an alert for residents living near the dam’s surrounding areas, officials said.

This is the second time in a week that the spillways have been opened after the dam was filled to its capacity.

Read more: Intermittent rain, high humidity lash Islamabad and Rawalpindi

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, heavy rain was recorded in several parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Saidpur received 40mm of rain, Golra 15mm, Shamsabad 18mm, and Kacheri area in Rawalpindi recorded 54mm.

Following the rainfall, Rawalpindi authorities declared a rain emergency. WASA Managing Director Saleem Ashraf confirmed that the agency is on high alert.

Monitoring of the Leh Nullah continues. The water level at Katarian point was recorded at 6 feet, and 5 feet at Gawalmandi, WASA officials added.

Heavy machinery and staff have been deployed in low-lying areas, and Section 144 has been imposed in Rawalpindi, banning swimming or entering seasonal streams.

WASA Rawalpindi has also cancelled all staff leaves to handle any emergency situation. Citizens have been advised to stay away from stormwater drains during rain.

In Islamabad, the Noor Pur Shah Nullah near Bari Imam overflowed due to heavy rainfall, adding to the city’s flooding risk.