Islamabad (Web Desk): All government and privately run educational institutions in Rawalpindi and Islamabad remained closed today (Tuesday) after powerful spells of rain swept across the twin cities, leaving around 160 millimetres of rainfall in the region and causing the water level in Nullah Lai to climb steadily.
The prolonged rainfall has intensified fears of urban flooding, especially in the vulnerable low-lying parts of Rawalpindi, where residents have been advised to remain particularly cautious.
Authorities have also urged communities settled along Nullah Lai to shift to safer places as a precaution against a possible rise in floodwater.
Officials said the water level at Kattarian had surged past 27 feet, while the level recorded at Gawalmandi stood at 21 feet. Sirens were activated in areas surrounding Nullah Lai after the rising water triggered concern among the authorities.
The Rawalpindi Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has been put on heightened alert, with a rain emergency declared across the city to deal with the situation.
Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Captain (retd.) Nadeem Nasir ordered WASA, Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, Solid Waste Management and the Municipal Corporation to maintain emergency readiness and closely monitor vulnerable areas.
WASA personnel, along with heavy equipment, have been stationed in flood-prone and low-lying localities to ensure rainwater is cleared as quickly as possible.
Special drainage arrangements have been put in place at Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk Underpass, Murree Road, Dhoke Khabba, Circular Road and Sadiqabad.
According to WASA officials, Nullah Lai and the city's other drainage channels are being watched continuously, allowing response teams to act promptly should the water level increase further.
Residents living in areas near Nullah Lai have been told to remain alert, adopt all necessary safety measures and strictly follow instructions issued by the authorities as the threat of flooding remains.