Rain emergency declared as Islamabad, Rawalpindi battered by torrential downpour

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been hit by intermittent torrential rain since last night, flooding low-lying parts of the twin cities, disrupting traffic and prompting authorities to declare a rain emergency, with more downpours forecast through the day.

The two cities have recorded an average of 95.27mm of rainfall so far, according to the Met Department, with Shamsabad receiving the highest at 121mm, followed by New Katarian (112mm), Pirwadhai (109mm), H-8 (99mm) and Kutchery (99mm). Golra, Saidpur, Bokra and Chaklala also recorded rainfall between 48mm and 94mm.

Low-lying neighbourhoods of Rawalpindi have gone under water, leaving residents struggling, while the water level in Nullah Lai has risen at the Gawalmandi point, prompting a flood alert for the city. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) managing director confirmed that a rain emergency has been imposed and the department placed on high alert, with staff and heavy machinery deployed at Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk, Mall Road and Sadiqabad to clear low-lying areas. Nullah Lai and other drains across Rawalpindi are being continuously monitored, the WASA chief said.

The district administration has also mobilised teams to ensure the drainage process runs smoothly, with Assistant Commissioners overseeing dewatering pumps in low-lying areas and officials monitoring both small and large storm drains across Islamabad. The Deputy Commissioner is personally tracking the situation in real time as it develops.

Traffic has been affected on the Islamabad Expressway and other major roads because of the heavy rain, with Islamabad Traffic Police officers deployed citywide to assist and guide commuters. The Motorway Police reported rain along the M1 between Islamabad and Rashakai, the M2 between Islamabad and Balkasar, and on the Swat Motorway between Burhan and Shah Maqsood.

Traffic police have urged motorists and motorcyclists to slow down, maintain distance from vehicles ahead, use fog lights and stay within their lane. Drivers have also been advised to use side mirrors, indicators and seatbelts at all times, while motorcyclists have been told to stick to the extreme left lane and wear helmets. The public can follow the Islamabad Traffic Police WhatsApp channel, its social media pages, or ITP FM 92.4 for further updates.

The Met Department has forecast more rain for Islamabad and its surrounding areas, as well as for Rawalpindi, Taxila, Wah Cantt, Murree and the Galyat region.