Urban flooding warnings issued in Pindi

RAWALPINDI:

After predictions of heavy rains in the coming days, the Rawalpindi district administration on Tuesday issued a red alert to all institutions in the district.

Moreover, holidays of employees of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), Civil Defence Department (CDD), Rescue 1122 and others have been suspended. The 111 Brigade of the army has also been alerted to remain on standby for any emergency.

The administration has also established four relief camps in Islamia Higher Secondary School, Islamia School Liaquat Bagh, High School Dhok Ratta and High School New Katariyan due to the looming threat of urban flooding.

WASA’s managing director told The Express Tribune that they have stationed heavy and light machinery in all low-lying areas of the district, particularly along Nullah Leh. CDD District Officer (DO) Talib Hussain said that 300 of their volunteers will remain on alert during the rain spells.

Further, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner (DC) has directed the residents along Nullah Leh to relocate to safer sites.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19^th, 2020.