Lahore braces for heavy rain as WASA remains on high alert

LAHORE: Lahore is experiencing hot and humid weather, with the current temperature recorded at 31°C and the maximum expected to reach 35°C. The minimum temperature is likely to remain at 28°C, while humidity stands at 75 percent and winds are blowing at 6 kilometres per hour.

The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall in Lahore from August 17 to 20 as part of the sixth monsoon spell, with rain expected across Lahore and other districts of Punjab until August 21. Authorities have warned of possible water accumulation in low-lying areas and urban flooding.

In view of the forecast, WASA Lahore has been placed on high alert on the special directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. WASA Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shahbaz Ahmed, DG WASA Punjab Tayyab Fareed, and MD WASA Lahore Ghufran Ahmed have directed officials to ensure that all major roads and underpasses remain clear and drainage operations continue without interruption.

DG WASA Punjab directed all field teams to remain fully mobilised, while MD WASA Lahore instructed officials to operate disposal stations on generators in areas facing power outages to ensure uninterrupted drainage operations.

The WASA Vice Chairman directed officials to keep pumps at all disposal stations operational and ensure that screens are regularly cleaned to prevent blockages. MD WASA Lahore also directed all Town Directors to closely monitor their respective areas and take immediate action wherever necessary.

Meanwhile, WASA Lahore has released the latest rainfall record, with 21mm recorded at the Nishtar Town Director Office, 2.2mm in Kahna and 25.4mm at the Nishtar Town Disposal Station. The Nishtar Town Disposal Station recorded the highest rainfall among the reported locations.

Under the directives of MD WASA Lahore Ghufran Ahmed, continuous monitoring of drainage operations is underway, with field officers and staff remaining fully mobilised to ensure the timely disposal of rainwater.

The Meteorological Department has also advised citizens to take precautionary measures during rainfall and avoid unnecessary travel. Relevant authorities have been directed to remain alert and take all necessary measures to deal with any emergency situation.