All leaves for Rescue 1122 staff in Rawalpindi have been cancelled as part of emergency measures ahead of the expected monsoon rains starting August 5. Key areas across the district have already been prepped with necessary deployments.
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned of a fresh monsoon spell beginning August 5, which may cause flooding in various parts of the province.
Acting on directions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the PDMA issued a detailed update, stating that rainfall was recorded over the past day in districts like Rawalpindi, Bahawalnagar, Murree, Chakwal, Sahiwal, Narowal, Okara, Attock, and Lahore. More rainfall is expected in several districts over the next day.
Rescue teams have been fully equipped, with ambulances, fire trucks, rescue boats, and other emergency tools ready for deployment.
Community response teams are also on alert to assist with early evacuations, first aid, and public awareness efforts in vulnerable areas.
A district-level emergency control room is operating around the clock to monitor real-time weather updates, the water level in Nullah Lai, and other risks. Coordination among departments has been enhanced for a swift response.
So far this monsoon season, the PDMA has recorded 162 fatalities and 571 injuries across the province. In addition, 214 houses were damaged and 121 livestock were lost.
People are advised to stay clear of open drains and electric poles during rainfall, keep rooftop drains unclogged, and in case of any emergency, dial “1122” for help.