Heavy rain in parts of city

PMD official says 34-mm rain was recorded at Qartaba Chowk

LAHORE: Heavy rain lashed the provincial capital on Friday slowing down the city life due to the accumulation of water on roads.

Express News reported that around 139 feeders of Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) tripped, leaving half of the city without electricity. According to LESCO officials, they are trying their best to restore electricity.



The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast similar weather conditions for the next 24 hours. An official said that about 34-milimetre rain was recorded at Qartaba Chowk, which was submerged with rainwater.

According to the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) official, the agency utilised heavy machinery and manpower immediately after the rains and water was drained out within two hours after the heavy downpour. Rainwater was seen accumulated in various localities of the city, including Johar Town, Ichhra, Muslim Town, Garden Town, Bahria Town, Mozang, Railway Road, Gwalmandi, Davis Road, Garhi Shahu, Canal Bank Road, Township and adjacent areas.



A PMD official said a weak monsoon current from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal ware continuously penetrating the upper and central parts of the country and is likely to continue during the next 24 hours.



Around two weeks ago, at least eight people died and a dozen got injured in various rain-incidents of electrocution and roof collapse. The rainfall that according to the PMD was recorded to be 214-millimetre in 24 hours – the heaviest since 1980 – brought life to a standstill, turning roads into virtual rivers, stranding commuters and causing loss of properties.

(With additional input from APP)

Published in The Express Tribune, July 21^st, 2018.