Torrential rain has caused severe traffic congestion across several major roads in Islamabad, creating difficulties for commuters during the morning rush hour.
Heavy traffic has been reported on the Islamabad Expressway up to I-8, while Park Road, Bani Gala and Serena Chowk are also witnessing traffic jams.
The persistent rainfall has reduced visibility and slowed traffic, while water accumulation at several points has further affected the smooth flow of vehicles. Motorists are being forced to drive cautiously on wet roads, adding to travel times.
The Islamabad Expressway, one of the capital’s major north-south routes connecting Islamabad with Rawalpindi, is particularly congested. Traffic problems on the route have also been reported regularly during peak hours.
Park Road is also facing additional pressure, with ongoing development work in parts of the corridor having previously prompted traffic diversions and warnings of congestion.
Weather conditions in the capital remain unsettled, with rain and thunderstorms expected to continue at intervals. Commuters have been advised to allow extra travel time, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.
Drivers are also advised to use alternative routes where possible and exercise caution around areas prone to water accumulation.
The continuing rain is expected to keep traffic conditions challenging in parts of the capital, particularly on major arteries and busy intersections.
On the other hand, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the sixth spell of monsoon rains across the province, forecasting rainfall in most districts till August 21.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad. Rainfall is also forecast in Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal.
Meanwhile, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan may receive rain on August 20 and 21. The ongoing monsoon rains across the country have significantly changed the situation in rivers, dams and water reservoirs. Tarbela Dam has reached its maximum conservation level, while the water level in Mangla Dam has risen to 68%. Continued rainfall has increased river flows, raising concerns about possible flooding in several areas.
Also read: Heavy rain triggers rain emergency in Rawalpindi, Islamabad