Quick Answer: Torrential monsoon rain flooded low-lying areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, prompting authorities to close all public and private educational institutions, declare a rain emergency, and place the Pakistan Army on standby as water levels in Nullah Lai crossed dangerous levels.
What Happened
Heavy rain began around 3:20am to 3:50am and continued for several hours, dumping some of the heaviest single-day rainfall Rawalpindi has recorded in years. According to the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board’s Chief Water Engineer, the downpour broke a 16-year rainfall record, with comparable levels last seen in 2010.
The Rawalpindi district administration responded by announcing a public holiday and closing all educational institutions in the city as a precaution, citing both flooding risk and the danger of children commuting through waterlogged roads.
Rainfall and Flood Data
- Highest rainfall recorded: Shamsabad, at around 195–197 millimetres.
- Other high totals: New Kattarian (180–185mm), Golra (157mm), H-8 (152mm), Saidpur Village (98mm), Pirwadhai (86mm), I-12 and Chaklala (72mm each).
- Nullah Lai water levels: Crossed 27 feet at Kattarian and reached around 21–23.5 feet at Gawalmandi, prompting evacuation warnings for residents living along the drain.
Areas Affected by Flooding
Water entered homes and streets in several low-lying localities, including Shamsabad, Sadiqabad, Awan Colony, Jamia Masjid Road, Javed Colony, Habib Colony, Dhoke Farman Ali, Nadeem Colony, Arya Mohalla, and parts of Safdarabad and Hazara Colony, where overflowing nullahs sent water into residential areas.
Emergency Response
- WASA Rawalpindi declared a rain emergency in Nullah Lai’s catchment areas and deployed staff, dewatering pumps, and heavy machinery.
- Rescue 1122 personnel were positioned around Nullah Lai for emergency response.
- Pakistan Army, Rescue 1122, and Pakistan Rangers were placed on standby to assist the district administration, with the Army’s 111 Brigade in direct contact with local authorities.
- The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board placed all staff on high alert and divided the cantonment area into six sections for coordinated emergency response.
- Residents living around Nullah Lai were directed to evacuate to safer locations as a precaution.
Advisory for Residents
- Avoid unnecessary travel, particularly near Nullah Lai and other low-lying areas, until water levels recede.
- Households near flood-prone drains should stay alert to evacuation instructions from district authorities.
- Motorists are advised to exercise extra caution and follow traffic guidance amid waterlogged roads.
FAQs
Q: Are schools closed in Rawalpindi today?
Yes, all public and private educational institutions in Rawalpindi were closed following record-breaking rainfall and rising flood risk from Nullah Lai.
Q: Is the Pakistan Army involved in the flood response?
Yes, the Army’s 111 Brigade is on standby and in coordination with the district administration to assist if the situation worsens.
Q: Which areas of Rawalpindi are most affected by flooding?
Shamsabad, Sadiqabad, Awan Colony, Javed Colony, Dhoke Farman Ali, and areas near Nullah Lai have reported water entering homes and streets.
Q: How can residents get help during the flooding?
Residents can contact WASA’s emergency centre or Rescue 1122 for evacuation assistance and emergency response in affected areas.
This report is based on statements from the Rawalpindi district administration, WASA, and PMD. It will be updated as the flood situation develops.
