The Islamabad district administration has opened the spillways of Rawal Dam after the reservoir reached its maximum safe water level following continuous monsoon rainfall.
The water level at Rawal Dam reached 1,748.30 feet, leading authorities to activate the spillways under standard operating procedures.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad advised residents to stay away from rivers, streams, nullahs and other flooded water bodies during the release operation. Citizens were urged to avoid unnecessary visits to areas near the dam and to follow official safety instructions issued by the administration.
Opening spillways is a routine safety procedure whenever a dam reaches its maximum storage capacity, during the monsoon season to reduce stress on the dam structure, and avoid likelihood of flash flooding while supporting safe water management.
Authorities activated warning sirens in nearby localities before opening the spillways to alert residents. Relevant emergency departments were also informed in advance so they could remain prepared to respond.
Moreover, according to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO), around 6,283 cusecs of water were released from Rawal Dam.
Further, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was also informed before the spillways were opened to ensure coordination among disaster management and emergency response agencies throughout the operation.
On the other hand, Intermittent heavy rain is continuing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi after days of intense humidity. The rain has made the weather pleasant, but it is also leaving roads and low-lying areas flooded, while the water level in Nullah Lai has risen.
The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) is on high alert to deal with the situation. According to the WASA Director General, rainfall recorded so far includes:
- Saidpur: 31 mm
- Golra: 40 mm
- Bokra: 17 mm
- Shamsabad: 13 mm
- New Katarian: 17 mm
Read more: Heavy rain floods low-lying areas in Islamabad and Rawalpindi
