Heavy rain lashes twin cities

Water accumulated in low-lying areas disrupts life

RAWALPINDI:

The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad experienced early morning rain, leading to water accumulation in low-lying areas and causing severe inconvenience to citizens along the main thoroughfares.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) reported rainfall of 54 mm in both cities.

The downpour significantly impacted traffic flow, particularly at locations like Committee Chowk Underpass, Arya Mohalla, Chah Sultan, Airport Road, and Rawal Road, where rainwater accumulated.

WASA dispatched teams to these areas and deployed heavy machinery to ensure efficient water drainage. To mitigate traffic disruptions, alternative routes were arranged until water levels subsided on the highways.

As per the meteorological department, Shamsabad recorded 25 mm of rainfall, Chaklala received 48 mm, Syedpur village saw 22 mm, Bokra registered 19 mm, and Golra reported 35 mm of rainfall. The water level in Nullah Leh remained within the normal range. The weather forecast agency has forecasted additional monsoon rains in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Murree, Gilyat, and upper Punjab within the next 24 hours.

Officials have issued warnings of potential flooding in storm drains due to the heavy rains.

The Met office has urged all departments concerned, including NDMA to take precautionary measures to minimise possible damage.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 29^th, 2023.