Rawalpindi declares rain emergency over flooding, road blockages

RAWALPINDI: Authorities in Rawalpindi declared a rain emergency on Wednesday following heavy monsoon rain that raised fears of urban flooding and disrupted traffic across the city.

The Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) recorded intense rainfall in several parts of the city and the surrounding regions – 86 mm in Saidpur village, 81 mm in Shamsabad, 51 mm in sector H8, 28 mm in Bokra, and 27 mm in Chaklala over a two-hour period.

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The sudden thunderstorms overwhelmed the city’s drainage infrastructure. This lead to waterlogging on major roads such as the IJP Road, where many vehicles were stranded.

Officials from the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) deployed staff and heavy machinery to clear blocked drains and monitor critical waterways. This includes the Nala Lei, whose water reached 12 feet in Katarian market and 10 feet in Gol Mandi.

Rawalpindi’s struggle with urban flooding in a recurring problem during monsoon seasons, largely due to an inadequate drainage system that has not kept pace with rapid urban growth.

Encroachments and waste dumping further exacerbate water drainage issues.  

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The local administration urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay alert as more rainfall is expected today.

Web Desk