By Torrential rains have brought Rawalpindi to a standstill, flooding major roads and inundating homes, leaving the city grappling with severe disruptions. Key routes, including Murree Road, Liaquat Bagh, and Mall Road, have turned into mini-lakes, significantly affecting transportation and daily life.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported substantial rainfall, with measurements of 65mm in Saidpur, 51mm in Golra, 110mm in P.Bokra, and 94mm in the Kutchery area. This heavy downpour has caused the water levels in Nullah Lai to rise dangerously, reaching 10 feet at Katarian and 9.5 feet at Gawalmandi. A pre-alert has been issued, warning nearby communities of potential flooding.
Several residential areas, including Shale Village, Tench Bhatta, and People’s Colony, have been severely impacted, with rainwater entering homes and submerging streets. Residents in these low-lying areas are facing severe hardships as they navigate through waterlogged streets and flooded homes.
The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) and the Cantonment Board have struggled to manage the three-day-long deluge. Despite their efforts, drainage systems have failed, resulting in widespread flooding across the city.
Business activities in Rawalpindi have come to a halt as shops in Mochi Bazaar, Mori Bazaar, and Sadiqabad Chowk have been flooded. The city’s traffic system is paralyzed, with vehicles stranded and traffic wardens struggling to manage the chaos.
In Sharon Colony and Kent John Colony, located along the banks of the Sawan River, water levels have risen to three feet inside homes, causing significant damage to property. Residents have begun evacuating as the situation worsens.
WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf stated that the agency is on high alert, with emergency measures in place to handle the flooding. Heavy machinery and personnel have been deployed to low-lying areas to assist with drainage efforts. While the flow of water in Nullah Lai is currently under control, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to respond to any emergencies.
As Rawalpindi battles this severe weather, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
