Heavy rain lashes Islamabad, Rawalpindi as low-lying areas inundated

ISLAMABAD: Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Tuesday, inundating several low-lying areas and disrupting routine life as authorities stepped up emergency measures.

According to rainfall data, Golra received the highest amount of rain in Islamabad at 31 millimetres, followed by Bokra with 24mm, while Saidpur and Sector H-8 recorded 11mm each. In Rawalpindi, 22mm of rain was recorded in Shamsabad and 9mm in Chaklala.

Several parts of Rawalpindi, including Dhok Kala Khan, Sadiqabad, Shakrial and Kuri Road, were affected as rainwater accumulated on roads and entered streets and homes in some low-lying areas.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) Rawalpindi declared a rain emergency and directed relevant teams to respond to water accumulation and drainage issues. A large flow of rainwater entered Mohalla Murree Hazara Colony in Rawalpindi’s Union Council 22, inundating streets and homes and causing difficulties for residents. According to local reports, teams from the Wasa had not yet reached the affected area, prompting residents to appeal to the district administration for immediate assistance.

In Islamabad, heavy rain was reported in sectors F-9, F-10 and F-11, as well as G-6, G-7 and G-8 and surrounding areas. The downpour, accompanied by strong winds, also affected traffic and movement in several parts of the twin cities.

Rainfall continues across twin cities

The latest figures showed that rainfall continued across both cities, with Islamabad receiving 15mm in Bokra and 18mm in Golra in a subsequent reading. Saidpur recorded 6mm and Sector H-8 received 8mm.

In Rawalpindi, Shamsabad recorded 18mm while Chaklala received 3mm in the later rainfall reading.

Authorities remained on alert as rain continued in different parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, particularly in areas vulnerable to water accumulation.

Islamabad traffic advisory

Islamabad Traffic Police advised citizens to allow extra travel time, drive slowly and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles during the rain. Motorists were also urged to use fog lights, remain in their lanes, use side mirrors and indicators and wear seat belts.

Motorcyclists were advised to use the extreme left lane and wear helmets. Traffic police officials remained deployed on roads to assist and guide commuters, while citizens were advised to follow traffic updates through the Islamabad Traffic Police WhatsApp channel, its social media pages or ITP FM 92.4.