Flood emergency concludes in Rawalpindi

Residents of flood-prone areas breathe a sigh of relief

RAWALPINDI:

The district administration has officially ended the flood emergency in Rawalpindi, effective from September 15, marking the conclusion of the flood season.

With the decision, the central flood control room has been decommissioned, and officers from relevant institutions who were stationed there have returned to their respective departments.

Agencies such as the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation, Rescue 1122, and the Cantonment Boards will now resume their regular duties, focusing on rain-related issues as usual.

The flood emergency was initially declared on June 15 under the directive of Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema. During this period, five flood relief camps were established to assist residents affected by flooding.

These camps have now been dismantled as the administration reports that the risk of flooding has passed.

Although the flood season is over, relevant institutions will remain vigilant, particularly in monitoring low-lying areas and underpasses that are prone to water accumulation during rainfall.

The Red Alert issued by the 111 Brigade in connection with the flood situation has also been lifted. Rawalpindi, particularly the areas around Nullah Leh and the 15 rainwater drains that cut through the city, has historically experienced flooding during July and August, the peak of the monsoon season. With the conclusion of the monsoon, the threat of heavy rainfall and flooding has diminished significantly. The district administration has indicated that any remaining rainfalls are expected to be manageable and not pose a significant risk of flooding.

Residents of flood-prone areas, particularly those living near Nullah Leh and other rain drains, are now breathing a sigh of relief. Many who had evacuated their homes are returning, and repair and restoration efforts are underway to rebuild the damage caused by flooding. In particular, homes affected by water ingress are being repainted and repaired, a sign of recovery as the flood season draws to a close.

This year's monsoon season brought significant challenges to the city, with floodwaters entering low-lying areas, homes, and streets on seven different occasions due to heavy rainfall. Tragically, five children lost their lives during this period.

Additionally, seven homes saw partial collapse of their walls, while two houses were completely destroyed. The financial toll has been severe, with rainwater damaging shops and homes, resulting in losses amounting to millions of rupees.