Torrential rain swamps twin cities

RAWALPINDI:

Heavy rain early Friday morning once again inundated low-lying areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, spreading fear among residents.

Nullah Leh and all 15 rainwater drains experienced medium-level flooding, while up to three feet of water accumulated on streets and roads in low-lying areas.

The streets presented the appearance of streams, while all underpasses across the city were also inundated.

Although the weather became pleasant, the entry of rainwater into homes and shops severely disrupted routine life.

According to the Meteorological Department, 65 millimetres of rain was recorded in Saidpur, 17mm in Golra, 8mm in Bokra, 19mm at PMD, 17mm in Shamsabad, 7mm in Kacheri, 11mm in Pirwadhai, 9mm in Gawalmandi and 13mm in New Katarian.

Dense black clouds continued to pour heavily amid thunder and lightning.

WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan said heavy rain had been continuing in the twin cities since early morning. He said WASA was on high alert and a rain emergency had been declared.

WASA staff and heavy machinery were deployed in low-lying areas. Heavy machinery was deployed at Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk underpass, Murree Road and low-lying areas of Sadiqabad.