Heavy Rain Brings Much-Needed Relief to Rawalpindi and Islamabad, WASA Declares Rain Emergency
RAWALPINDI: A refreshing spell of heavy rainfall early Wednesday brought much-needed relief from the scorching heat and humidity in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The sudden weather shift not only lowered temperatures but also improved water levels in key reservoirs and dams, including Rawal and Khanpur.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rainfall in the coming days, prompting the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) to issue a rain emergency alert and mobilize teams for rapid response.
Significant Rainfall Recorded
The early morning downpour led to over 82 millimetres of rain in various parts of the cities. The Saidpur area of Islamabad recorded the highest rainfall at 82mm, followed by:
-
Bokra: 68mm
-
Shamsabad: 56mm
-
Chaklala: 53mm
-
Pirwadhai: 53mm
-
Golra: 25mm
-
PMD Headquarters: 33mm
The intense rain caused a rise in Nullah Leh’s water level, reaching 12 feet at Katarian Bridge and 10 feet at Gawalmandi Bridge. However, the level began to recede shortly after the rain stopped.
WASA on High Alert
In response to the heavy rainfall, WASA declared a rain emergency, activating full-scale operations. Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf confirmed that all WASA teams were deployed with heavy machinery to facilitate water drainage and flood response.
To manage the situation efficiently:
-
Flood response camps have been set up across the city.
-
Staff leaves were cancelled, ensuring maximum personnel availability.
-
Teams are actively monitoring stormwater drains to prevent overflow.
-
Low-lying areas have been prioritized for emergency drainage efforts.
Officials Visit Affected Areas
Prominent officials, including MNA Tahira Aurangzeb, Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema, and MD WASA Saleem Ashraf, visited the Gawalmandi Bridge to assess the post-rainfall conditions and oversee ongoing efforts.
Areas Under Close Watch
WASA teams are stationed in key areas impacted by the rain, including:
-
Liaquat Bagh
-
Committee Chowk
-
Nadeem Colony
-
Arya Mohalla
-
Murree Road
-
Jamia Masjid Road
-
Sadiqabad
-
Old Airport Area
Despite the intensity of the rain, no major incidents of flooding or drain overflow were reported.
Looking Ahead
With more rain expected in the coming days, residents are advised to stay updated through official weather and emergency bulletins. The proactive approach by city authorities aims to ensure safety and minimize disruption during this monsoon spell.
