Heavy rain lashes twin cities

Brings relief to residents; floods low-lying areas, disrupts traffic flow

RAWALPINDI/ ISLAMABAD:

The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad witnessed heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning, relieving the citizens of the scorching heat.

However, the heavy downpours also caused disruptions in daily life, accumulating rainwater in low-lying areas and affecting the traffic system.

The rain, which started early in the morning, brought a significant drop in temperature, decreasing by 10 points, from 31 degrees Centigrade to 21 degrees Centigrade. The citizens, who were facing severe heat and humidity, welcomed the rain with joy.

However, the accumulation of rainwater in low-lying areas, including Jamia Masjid Road, Shah Khalid Colony Railway Underpass, Rahimabad Bridge, and many streets of Sadiqabad, caused problems for the citizens. The flow of traffic was also affected by rainwater accumulated at several places on Murree Road, Rawal Road, Bank Road, and other major roads.

The district administration, considering the forecast of more rains, put all departments, including Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), on high alert. Officials said the administration ensured the cleaning of sewage drains and storm drains in low-lying areas to avoid any further disruptions.

According to the Nullah Leh Flood Control Room, 10 mm of rain was recorded in an hour around Nullah Leh, 10 mm in Syedpur village of Islamabad, 8 mm in Golra, 7 mm in Bokhara, 15 mm in PMD, 5 mm in Shamsabad, and 11 mm in Kachhari.

The meteorological department confirmed that the temperature dropped by 10 points due to the heavy rain, bringing a pleasant change in the weather.

Citizens faced problems due to the accumulation of rainwater, but the district administration took action to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and daily life. The administration also instructed citizens to stay away from power poles and electrical appliances during heavy rain.

Published in The Express Tribune May 11^th, 2024.