Rawalpindi (HRNW)- Heavy rains have disrupted normal life in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, prompting the district administration to declare a local holiday in Rawalpindi as intermittent rainfall continues.
The water level in Nala Lai, which had risen to 29 feet, is now rapidly receding. At Katarian, the level has dropped to around 9 feet, while in Gowalmandi it has fallen from 23.5 feet to 13.5 feet. Floodwater is also receding from several low-lying areas.
Earlier, alarm sirens were sounded after the water level in Nala Lai rose significantly, and residents living along its banks were directed to evacuate to safer locations. Authorities warned that a major flood wave from Islamabad was moving toward Rawalpindi.
Floodwater from Nala Lai has entered the Swan River, which remains in high flood. Several areas, including GT Road, private housing societies, Adiala Road, Chontra, Chakri and Chakbeli, have been affected.
Rainfall of 120 mm was recorded at New Katarian, 119 mm at Golra and 104 mm at Shamsabad, while earlier rainfall measurements included 101, 90 and 75 mm. A rain alert remains in place for the Nala Lai catchment areas, with authorities warning of possible rapid rises in water levels and flash floods.
Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi has declared a local holiday for September 1, with all relevant institutions closed except emergency services and authorities. The district administration has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from Nala Lai and other low-lying areas. Vehicles were also reported stranded due to water on Islamabad Expressway.
The administration said relief agencies are on alert and the Triple One Brigade remains in contact, although military assistance has not yet been formally called in.
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