Rain triggers flooding, power outages in twin cities

Heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms lashed Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Saturday. The downpour disrupted routine life in several parts of the two cities.

Several areas of Islamabad faced waterlogging after the heavy rainfall. Underpasses in the G-6 sector were filled with rainwater. The accumulation of water caused difficulties for motorists and pedestrians.

The situation was also reported to be severe in Chatta Bakhtawar. Roads and streets were submerged under rainwater. Several streets gave the appearance of ponds. Rainwater also entered residential houses in the area, creating problems for residents.

The heavy rain also affected electricity supply in different parts of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Several areas experienced power disruptions as the weather conditions deteriorated.

Rawalpindi authorities declared a rain emergency following the heavy downpour. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) activated its teams to deal with the situation. Staff members were deployed to affected areas.

Heavy machinery was also moved to different locations. The equipment was being used to remove accumulated rainwater and keep major roads and routes clear.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast more rain in several parts of the country. Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northeastern Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir are expected to receive rain.

The Met Office has warned that some areas may receive heavy rainfall. The intense rain could increase the risk of flooding in streams and rain-fed waterways.

Authorities have also been advised to remain alert in vulnerable areas. Urban flooding may cause further disruption if heavy rain continues.

Meanwhile, the water situation in the Indus River has also become a concern. Medium-level flooding has been reported at Kalabagh.

Water inflow at Kalabagh was recorded at around 397,000 cusecs. The rising water level has increased pressure on river management authorities.

Low-level flooding has also been reported at several major water reservoirs and barrages. These include Tarbela Dam, Chashma Barrage, Taunsa, Guddu and Sukkur Barrage.

Despite the flooding at these locations, the overall situation in the country’s other rivers remains normal. The Flood Forecasting Division in Lahore said there was no major flood situation in the remaining rivers.