ISLAMABAD: A new spell of monsoon rain began on Monday across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and nearby areas, bringing light to heavy showers to the twin cities. The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts that the current rainy period will continue until July 25.
Officials had already expected this new round of heavy rain in the Potohar region, which includes the districts of Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Jhelum, Attock, and Chakwal.
In response, emergency preparations have been activated. A Flood-Rain Emergency Control Room has been set up at the office of the Commissioner Rawalpindi Division to monitor potential flooding in rain drains across six districts.
Rescue 1122 has issued a high alert and deployed specialized teams equipped with water boats and essential gear at key locations like Soan River and other flood-prone areas.
District Emergency Officer Sibghatullah said that a rain emergency has been proclaimed and that Section 144 has been put in place in Rawalpindi to keep trash and garbage from blocking drainage systems. He told people not to throw trash or building materials into rainfall channels.
Leaves of Rescue 1122 staff have been cancelled, and teams are on high alert. Control rooms have been made fully operational, and Nullah Lai, along with other local drain,s are being closely monitored to prevent flash flood disasters.