Islamabad: Heavy rainfall since last night has caused a dangerous rise in the water level of Nallah Lai in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. In response, the local administration has issued an emergency alert, advising residents of nearby low-lying areas to evacuate immediately and move to safer locations. According to the Meteorological Department, 230 mm of rainfall has been recorded so far, flooding several low-lying neighborhoods and severely disrupting daily life and transportation.
For detailed weather warnings and NDMA advisories regarding ongoing rainfall across Islamabad and Punjab, read this comprehensive update.
In light of the worsening situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has convened an emergency meeting to address the potential flood threat. Sources confirm that the Prime Minister has demanded immediate reports from the Chief Commissioner of Rawalpindi, the Managing Director of WASA, and other relevant authorities. The meeting will focus on the damages caused by the rain, the current drainage situation, ongoing rescue operations, and preventive measures moving forward.
The district administration has urged citizens to avoid going outside unnecessarily and stay away from flood-prone areas. Rescue 1122, WASA, police, and other emergency response units have been placed on high alert to handle any crisis efficiently. WASA officials have stated that the water level in Nallah Lai is being continuously monitored and all necessary precautionary measures are underway to prevent major losses.
It is worth noting that Nallah Lai is a major natural water channel in Rawalpindi, which often overflows during the monsoon season. In the past, severe flooding in 2001 and 2008 resulted in significant loss of life and property. Since then, the authorities issue a high alert every year at the onset of the monsoon season to avoid a repeat of such disasters.
