Heavy rain lashes twin cities, inundates low-lying areas

On Tuesday morning, intense rain swept through Rawalpindi and Islamabad, overwhelming low-lying regions and causing water levels to rise in the Leh Nullah. The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that water levels reached 29 feet at Kattarian and 23.5 feet at Gawalmandi. With 200mm of rain recorded in the Leh Nullah catchment areas, the district administration declared a holiday for educational institutions.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal declared that rising water levels posed "urban flooding risks" in the twin cities, with all relief and emergency services, including Wasa, Rescue 1122 and the district administration, on high alert.

Data showed heavy rainfall in various areas, with Saidpur receiving 104mm, Golra 157mm, Bokra 72mm, PMD site near H-8/2 155mm, Shamsabad 74mm, Pir Widhai 86mm, New Kattarian 186mm, and Kutchery 201mm. Rawalpindi's deputy commissioner warned citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, while Rescue 1122 evacuated 60 people. Islamabad's deputy commissioner reported that the water level in Rawal Dam exceeded the set limit, prompting spillway opening at 2pm and urging people to stay away from nullahs.

A wall collapse in D12 was under rescue operations, with no reported casualties. Traffic police advised motorists to allow extra time, reduce speed, and maintain safe distances due to water accumulation affecting traffic, while recommending fog lights in low visibility. Journalists reported flooded streets and submerged vehicles, with the Met Office predicting dangerous conditions for the twin cities from the previous night's rain.