Alarms sound as Nullah Lai reaches danger level; evacuation orders issued

(Web Desk): Torrential rain since last night has flooded Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with alarm bells ringing due to rising water levels in Nullah Lai.

Residents of nearby areas have been advised to move to safer locations.

So far, 230 mm of rainfall has been recorded in the twin cities since last night, resulting in low-lying areas being submerged. In Rawalpindi’s Dhoke Khabba area, stagnant water has caused difficulties for residents.

Overflowing drains have disrupted traffic flow on several roads across Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

At Katarian, the water level in Nullah Lai has risen to 20 feet, and at Gawalmandi Bridge, it has reached 19 feet. The rising water level in the River Soan has also submerged the bridge there.

Warning sirens have been sounded around Nullah Lai. All relevant departments, including Rescue 1122, WASA, and Civil Defense, have been put on high alert.

Evacuation warnings have been issued for areas surrounding Katarian and Gawalmandi. Rescue officials have stated that the rising water poses a threat to nearby communities, urging residents to move to safe locations as a precaution.

The Managing Director of WASA has contacted the Triple One Brigade, and the spokesperson has confirmed that a decision has been made to call in the Pakistan Army in case of emergency. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel.

Meanwhile, in Jhelum, heavy rain since last night has caused flooding in streams and canals. The district administration has requested military assistance to rescue people stranded in flood-affected areas.

Due to weather conditions, a one-day public holiday has been announced in Rawalpindi district. The Deputy Commissioner has issued a notification, urging people to stay indoors and avoid going out unnecessarily.

In Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, heavy rain has continued since late last night. The intense rainfall has caused a surge in the water flow of the Neelum River and surrounding streams.

The Meteorological Department has predicted further rainfall in the coming hours.