Islamabad and Rawalpindi face severe flooding from heavy monsoon rains

Torrential monsoon rains have triggered severe urban flooding across the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, prompting emergency declarations and the closure of all public and private educational institutions.

In Rawalpindi, the Nullah Lai drain reached critical levels, with water recorded at approximately 27 to 29 feet at Katarian and 21 to 24 feet at Gawalmandi. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) declared a rain emergency in the waterway’s catchment areas, deploying heavy machinery and sirens to alert residents in low-lying neighborhoods such as Safdarabad, Pirwadhai, and Sadiqabad. Some areas reported rainfall as high as 200mm, marking significant levels for the region.

Islamabad also experienced intense downpours, with the E-11 sector recording roughly 150mm of rain. The deluge caused sewer overflows, flooded roads, and water to enter several basements. Authorities reported a protective wall collapse in the D-12/2 sector, though no immediate loss of life was reported.

Emergency services, including Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and the Pakistan Army, have been placed on high alert. Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir has directed continuous monitoring and de-watering operations to mitigate the impact on residents and commuters.