Rain emergency imposed in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has imposed a rain emergency in Rawalpindi and raised its alert status amid ongoing heavy rainfall across the twin cities.

The decision follows a forecast from the Meteorological Department predicting continuous and significant precipitation throughout the day.

According to WASA, both cities recorded over 35mm of rainfall, with specific readings as follows: Saidpur 31mm, Golra 23mm, Bokra 35mm, and Pirwadhai 33mm.

Heavy rainfall lashes Punjab: PDMA issues high alert

In view of the rain emergency in Rawalpindi, heavy machinery and staff have been deployed in low-lying areas, while special attention is being paid to Committee Chowk underpass and Murree Road, where equipment is already stationed.

The recent downpour has helped raise the water levels in Rawal and Khanpur dams, which has resulted in an improvement in the supply of clean drinking water, said the MD.

WASA officials also confirmed that timely desilting of Nullah Leh and other drains was carried out ahead of the rain spell.

WASA officials are closely monitoring all major drains, including the Nullah Lai, which is currently within normal limits. Water levels in the nullah have reached seven feet at Katarian and six feet at Gawalmandi Bridge.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall, accompanied by gusty winds and thundershowers at isolated places, in Islamabad, Upper Punjab, and Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The current rain spell is predicted to last till July 1.

In view of the expected weather conditions, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued an advisory valid through July 1, calling on authorities to remain prepared for potential weather-related emergencies.