After heavy rain in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the water level in Nala Lai has risen. The Meteorological Department has forecast more rain and thunderstorms and warned of the potential for urban flooding in flooding-prone areas.
The Meteorological Department said that other rain could be experienced in the twin cities and neighbouring regions in the coming hours. There can be more flow in local drains if it rains heavily. In this condition, the people in the vicinity of Nala Lai must be extra alert.
In the new condition, the water level in Nala Lai has decreased from the previous level. Rescue 1122 said that the water level in Katarian was at 12 feet, while it was approximately 16.5 feet in Gowalmandi. However, due to the forecast of more rain, the alert was not lifted.
The magnitude of the rain can also be determined from the numbers in various locations. 145 mm of rain was recorded in Kachhari. In Shamsabad, 126 mm, and in Pirodhai, 122 mm.
The twin cities’ low-lying areas are already suffering the effects of the recent rain. A number of roads and settlements were flooded. People were forced to relocate to safer homes in some houses.
WASA has mobilised its teams with regard to the Rain Emergency in Rawalpindi. Staff and heavy machinery used at sensitive places. These include Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk Underpass, Murree Road, Dhok Khuba, Circular Road and Sadiqabad.
The government has urged the public to refrain from unnecessary travel. They have also been instructed to stay away from electricity poles and drains. Call Rescue 1122 in case of emergency.
The issue of the rising water level of Nala Lei due to heavy rains has not been unprecedented. The water level in Katarian and Gowalmandi was 22 feet and 17.5 feet, respectively, last week. There was also the sound of alarm sirens at that time.
The problem now is the rain quantity and persistency. With heavy rain in the next few hours, there is more pressure on the drainage system. This risk is more prevalent in areas along Nala Lei, which are lower lying.
Urban flooding can happen anywhere, not just at Nala Lei. Rain may also lead to water surface accumulation in roads, underpasses and local drainage. Hence, citizens are required to make decisions on their travel based on the weather.
The Meteorological Department has urged the concerned authorities to stay alert, keeping in mind additional rainfall in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and its surrounding areas. In this case, timely drainage of sensitive areas and monitoring could be a key factor to minimise the damages.
Riders and motorists need to keep a close watch when it rains as well. Avoiding waterlogged roads and other open drains and paths in low-visibility areas may help reduce the risk of accidents.
In the Twin Cities, the water level of the drains could quickly increase again if the rain persists. This is the reason for the alertness of authorities and the citizens’ observation of the situation.
