Monsoon rains expose civic failures

The first two spells of monsoon rainfall have wreaked havoc in Rawalpindi, exposing the inefficiencies of civic agencies and raising concerns over potential floods.

Low-lying areas were completely flooded due to heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday, with water accumulating on all main roads of Saddar. Streets in Saddar, Old GTS Chowk, Hyder Road, Bank Road, Massey Gate, Poonch House Road Chowk, Mall Road, Murree Road Murir Chowk, Rawal Road, Saidpur Road, Sadiqabad Chowk, Adara, Tench Bhatta Chowk, Committee Chowk Underpass, Priwadhai, Chauhar Chowk Underpass Lowlands Javed Colony, and Dhok Elahi Baksh were inundated with over a foot of water.

All the manholes and sewers were overflowing because of clogged street drains. Low-level flooding was reported in 15 stormwater drains and Nullah Leh. Heavy rainfall late at night forced the residents of low-lying areas to stay awake until dawn to prevent water from entering their homes. The continuous downpour, accompanied by heavy thunder and lightning wreaked havoc through Thursday, Friday night, and Friday afternoon.

However, the two-day rainfall led to water accumulation in Rawal Dam, Simly Dam, and Khanpur Dam, filling their catchment areas. The heavy downpour cleared street drains but left standing water in the streets until Friday evening.

Graveyards, open fields, and plots across the city turned into mini ponds, posing a significant risk for the spread of dengue. Despite the chaos, the rain brought temporary relief and enjoyment for the citizens. A cool breeze lasted till Friday night. Children played in the rainwater and women enjoyed the rain from their rooftops. Birds appeared happy and relaxed in the nice weather, and parks became lively again with families visiting to enjoy the pleasant weather.

The rainfall also enhanced the scent of blooming flowers and plants. The heavy rainfall has highlighted the urgent need for effective urban planning and maintenance to prevent future flooding and health risks.