Rain lashes twin cities, authorities on alert

Islamabad and Rawalpindi received fresh rainfall on Monday, prompting local authorities to put civic agencies on alert and intensify drainage and monitoring efforts across the twin cities.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded 33 millimetres of rain in Saidpur village. Golra near E-11 received 25mm, while Pirwadhai and Gawalmandi recorded 28mm and 27mm, respectively. Other areas also received significant rainfall, with 23mm recorded in H-8, 22mm in I-12 and 29mm in Shamsabad.

Authorities continued monitoring Nullah Lai amid the wet weather. Residents were advised to avoid going near the water channel as a precaution.

Rawalpindi Commissioner Salman Ghani said the waterway was being monitored continuously and that residents would be informed about any changes. Officials said the water flow remained within normal limits.

The water level at Katarian was recorded at 5.5 feet, while the level at Gawalmandi stood at around 2 feet.

Traffic officials were also deployed at key locations in Islamabad to help maintain a smooth flow of vehicles during the rainfall. Residents were advised to follow traffic instructions and cooperate with personnel on duty.

Drainage operations were launched in different parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) Rawalpindi deployed teams and heavy machinery in areas considered vulnerable to water accumulation.

Machinery was positioned at several locations, including Liaquat Bagh, the Committee Chowk Underpass, Murree Road, Dhok Khabba and Circular Road. Additional equipment was also placed in low-lying parts of Sadiqabad.

Authorities urged residents to remain cautious during the rainfall and seek assistance from the district administration or Wasa helpline in case of an emergency.