Capital braces for rains, storms

Authorities mobilise resources to mitigate impact of severe weather

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ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad administration has launched a swift emergency response to tackle urban flooding and assist residents as the capital braces for heavy rain and stormy conditions. Authorities have placed the city on high alert, mobilising resources to mitigate the impact of the severe weather.

Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, has directed officials concerned to intensify operations throughout the city. These include drainage work, clearing fallen branches, removing debris, and restoring traffic flow disrupted by the rains.

Multiple city departments are working jointly in these efforts. Rescue 1122, Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI), Islamabad police, CDA, and district administration officials are actively coordinating field operations.

Their teams are working around the clock in key areas that saw water accumulation, traffic congestion, and fallen structures. The recent rainfall has caused water to pool on roads and in low-lying areas, slowing down traffic and creating mobility challenges for commuters.

Drainage systems have been pushed to capacity, prompting emergency teams to use pumps and other machinery to drain the excess water. Field workers have also been clearing blocked manholes and removing waste to improve the water flow.

Large trees and signboards were also affected by the high winds. In several areas, tree branches and boards were seen lying on roads, creating obstacles for traffic and pedestrians. The CDA and MCI teams have focused on removing these obstructions, using cranes and cutting equipment to safely shift broken materials off the streets.