Rawalpindi extends flood season by a month

Date moved up to Sept 30 to avert damage to waterways

RAWALPINDI:

The district administration has extended flood season in Rawalpindi by a month from August 31 to September 30 to avert potential damage to Nullah Leh and ten other drainage channels due to above-average rainfall this year.

The flood contingency plan will remain in effect in Rawalpindi city and its cantonment. Meanwhile, the famed 111 brigade of the army will remain on standby to handle any unlikely situation due to flooding. Meanwhile, residents of low-lying regions have been advised to exercise vigilance until September 30.

Officials have said the control room to monitor the flood situation has expanded. They have established five flood relief camps strategically located throughout the city. They will continue to operate until the end of the flood season. These camps are set up in schools and will be shifted to separate classrooms with the commencement of regular classes on August 20.

The flood relief camps will continue to provide amenities for accommodation, food and medication. These camps are located at Islamia Higher Secondary School No. 1 on Murree Road, the Islamia High School on Liaquat Road, the girls’ college in New Katarian, the government girls’ school in Dhok Rata, and the government college for girls at Gawalmandi.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa), the Municipal corporation, Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) and the Solid Waste Management Company have been told to stay on alert.

Meanwhile, authorities have also taken steps to enhance water flow in response to heightened concerns about water drainage resulting from recent heavy rainfall. It includes extensive cleaning of rainwater drains and the Nullah Leh to address potential drainage issues.

Simultaneously, the police have been instructed to closely monitor individuals disposing of construction waste in storm drains and to initiate legal actions against such activities.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 12^th, 2023..