Heavy rainfall in different localities of Twin-cities Rawalpindi and Islamabad led to a dangerous surge in the water level of Nullah Lai, but relief came as the water receded to five feet at Kattarian and Gawalmandi on Wednesday. The district administration spokesman reported that the rainfall gauging stations measured 195 mm at Shamsabad, 51mm at Saidpur Village, 112mm at Golra, 145mm at Bokra, 105mm at PMD, and 91mm at Chakala since last night.At 12.42 pm, the situation was deemed all clear as the perilous water levels in Nullah Lai subsided to 5 feet at both Kattarian and Gawalmandi. In response to the critical situation, the Commissioner Rawalpindi Division and DC conducted inspections in various areas to assess the water level in Nullah Lai.

 The district administration spokesman assured that all relevant departments were actively present in the field, ready to handle any untoward incidents. Teams from WASA and MCR were tirelessly working in the affected areas to clear rainwater, the spokesman added. A pre-alert had been issued at 11.4 feet for Kattarian and 8.3 feet for Gawalmandi, signaling the urgency of the situation. As of 11.30 am, water levels reached 14.1 feet at Gawalmandi and 11.4 feet at Kattarian in Nullah Lai. Earlier, at 8.23 am, the water level at Kattarian was recorded at 19 feet, while Gawalmandi measured 18 feet. To ensure the safety of residents, evacuation efforts were initiated in Kattarian and Gawalmandi, with teams from Rescue-1122, PDMA, and WASA equipped and on the ground. WASA teams focused on draining rainwater from vulnerable areas such as Sadiqabad and Committee Chowk within the city. The Commissioner and DC earnestly appealed to the public to avoid standing near the banks of Nullahs and strictly adhere to the instructions provided by the flood control room. Safety remained a top priority during this challenging time.

 
Credit : Independent News Pakistan-INP