Islamabad and its neighboring city of Rawalpindi experienced continuous, heavy rainfall throughout the night, with 199 millimeters of rain recorded, raising concerns about urban flooding. This led the administration to request assistance from the army in the twin cities.
According to a Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) spokesperson, the authority’s managing director has contacted the Pakistan Army’s 111 Brigade, as it was decided to call in the army in the event of an emergency.
Following the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s (PMD) forecast of more downpour, sirens have been activated in areas surrounding Nullah Leh due to a 16-foot rise in the water level.
Wasa announced that a rain emergency has been imposed, with its teams and heavy machinery deployed to low-lying areas of Rawalpindi. Personnel are actively engaged in drainage efforts to manage accumulated water. The Wasa MD stated, “Nullah Leh and drains across the city are being continuously monitored,” adding that water levels at Katarian were 18 feet and 17 feet at Gowalmandi Bridge.
Meanwhile, Rescue 1122 has also been placed on high alert, with its district administration officer advising people to move to safer locations before urban flooding and to evacuate dilapidated buildings. So far, Saidpur has received 53mm of rain, Golra 77mm, Bokra 95mm, Shamsabad 67mm, Kachehri 105mm, Pirwadhai and Gowalmandi 90mm, and Katarian 80mm.
Cloudburst in Chakwal
Beyond the twin cities, various areas across Punjab continue to be affected by heavy rains. A cloudburst occurred in Chakwal, resulting in as much as 423mm of rainfall. Several low-lying areas have been submerged, with water entering houses. The district administration reported that a rescue operation is underway to relocate citizens to safer places. According to the additional deputy commissioner, this severe situation is a consequence of the cloudburst. Bilal Bin Hafeez stated, “Civil administration is working to rescue citizens.”
Separately, continuous overnight rain has caused flooding in rivers and canals in Jhelum. The district administration has called in the army and a helicopter to rescue individuals trapped in floodwaters, which have inundated surrounding areas. Rescue teams are facing difficulties due to the high water levels. Additionally, Sheikhupura and its surrounding areas have also been hit by heavy rains, measuring up to 217mm.
Speaking about the heavy rains and the situation across Punjab, Secretary Emergency Services Dr. Rizwan mentioned that over 400mm of rainfall was recorded in Chakwal, making it challenging to manage the situation. He stated on Geo News’ program “Geo Pakistan,” “Climate change is a major global challenge.” Dr. Rizwan revealed that “so far, approximately 310 house roofs have collapsed in Punjab during the monsoon season, and 15 traffic accidents have occurred due to rain [in the province].” He added, “Around 90 deaths have occurred in various accidents across Punjab since June 16.”
