Heavy monsoon rains lashed Rawalpindi, Islamabad and several districts of Punjab on Wednesday morning causing swelling of Nullah Lai and other drainages.
The rain although brought relief from the intense summer heat but it also caused widespread urban flooding and a sharp rise in the water level of streams and drainage channels of Rawalpindi.
According to reports, persistent rain accompanied by thunder and lightning affected the twin cities and surrounding areas. The heavy downpour disrupted normal traffic. Overflowing drains created difficulties for commuters travelling through affected areas.
A major situation was reported at Nullah Lai in Rawalpindi, where the water level rose rapidly following the heavy rainfall. The district administration stated that the water level reached 10 feet at Katarian and 6 feet at Ganjmandi.
The district administration declared a high alert across Rawalpindi and Islamabad, in response to the rising water levels. Officials have been continuously monitoring Nullah Lai and other flood prone areas to ensure a timely response.
Also read: Islamabad receives fresh rain, weather turns pleasant
Meanwhile, Gujranwala city, Daska and nearby areas also experienced torrential rainfall, leaving neighbourhoods and streets flooded. This disrupted traffic and creating problems for commuters and residents, with vehicles struggling to pass through waterlogged roads. Additionally, heavy rain also continued in Wazirabad.
Further, the weather also affected electricity supply. Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) tripped immediately after the rain began, resulting in power outages across large parts of the region.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall. Citizens have also been advised to stay away from electricity poles, exposed electrical wires, and streams or drainage channels where fast flowing water could pose a serious safety risk.
The ongoing monsoon system is expected to continue affecting several parts of Punjab in the coming days, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting additional spells of rain.
Read more: Another monsoon spell expected from tomorrow
