A fresh spell of monsoon rains has begun across several parts of the country bringing relief from the sweltering heat but also raising fears of urban flooding and rising water levels in rivers. In Lahore, torrential rains accompanied by thunder lashed various parts of the city including Harbanspura, Taj Bagh, Jail Road, Gulberg, Canal Road, and Mall Road. The downpour significantly dropped the mercury and brought pleasant weather.

However, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast intermittent rainfall throughout the day, warning of potential waterlogging in low-lying areas. Similarly, Rawalpindi and Islamabad experienced heavy rainfall early on Wednesday. WASA Rawalpindi has been placed on high alert, with Managing Director WASA confirming that emergency crews and heavy machinery have been deployed in vulnerable areas.

“All low-lying areas are being monitored closely and we are fully prepared to tackle any situation,” the official said. The water levels in Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam have seen a noticeable rise, according to WASA, which has also noted an improvement in the clean water supply across the city due to the recent rains. In Gilgit-Baltistan, the Shewuk River has seen a sharp increase in water levels, putting the main Siachen Road at risk of flooding.

Officials have warned that if water continues to rise, it could enter residential areas, posing a threat to communities in its path. The PMD has also issued a weather advisory for other parts of Punjab, including Jaranwala, Phulingar, and Nankana Sahib, where both light and heavy showers have been reported. In Khanqah Dogran, rain accompanied by thunder and lightning led to the suspension of electricity in several localities.

The provincial capital has witnessed widespread rain in areas such as Model Town, Garden Town, Faisal Town, Township, Johar Town, and Kalma Chowk. The weather department has predicted intermittent rainfall to continue over the next 24 hours, which could bring more relief to residents, but also challenges for city management authorities. Chief Minister Punjab has issued special instructions to WASA Lahore to ensure all underpasses and main roads remain clear of water.

MD WASA Lahore has directed staff to keep all disposal stations operational and to use generators in areas where electricity supply has been interrupted. Meanwhile, the weather in parts of Sindh and Balochistan remains hot and humid, according to the Met Office, though isolated rainfall is not ruled out in the upper and central regions of the country.

District administrations in various regions have been instructed to remain vigilant, with emergency protocols already in effect in many urban centres. Authorities have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in areas prone to flooding.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)