Flood Alert System in Rawalpindi Disrupted After Backup Batteries Stolen
RAWALPINDI – The flood warning system at Chungi No. 4 on Nullah Leh was temporarily knocked offline after unidentified individuals stole its backup batteries, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
According to local authorities, the theft occurred in the Ganjmandi area, where unknown suspects broke open the locks of the monitoring post and removed six batteries that had been installed as part of the system since 2006.
⚠️ Disruption in Flood Monitoring During Monsoon Season
The battery theft led to a breakdown in communication between the flood monitoring station and the central control room, which is responsible for issuing flood alerts. In the interim, the system had to be switched to run on direct electricity, raising concerns about its reliability during power outages, especially during the ongoing monsoon rains.
🚨 Swift Response from Authorities
The issue came to light after Rescue 1122 alerted municipal officials. In response, the Municipal Corporation Rawalpindi acted promptly to:
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Replace the stolen batteries
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Restore full system functionality
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Re-establish real-time flood alerts
Officials confirmed that the flood monitoring system is now back online and fully operational.
🕵️ Investigation Underway
A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at Ganjmandi Police Station. Authorities are currently investigating and working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the theft.
✅ Citizens Urged to Stay Alert
Given the ongoing heavy rainfall across Rawalpindi and Islamabad, residents near Nullah Leh and low-lying areas are advised to stay updated through official weather alerts and cooperate with emergency services in case of flooding.
The restoration of the flood alert system ensures that timely warnings can once again be issued, helping safeguard lives and property during the monsoon season.
