Continuous heavy rain over the past hour has caused water levels in Nullah Leh to rise, prompting the administration to issue a pre-alert for the flood-prone areas of Katarian and Gowalmandi. The water level in Nullah Leh has risen to 15.5 feet at Katarian and 8.75 feet at Gowalmandi, with officials warning that an alert will be issued if the water levels reach 15.7 feet in Katarian and 14.1 feet in Gowalmandi. The heavy rainfall has resulted in a total of 36.7mm of rain being recorded across the twin cities, with specific areas seeing even higher amounts. The rain gauging centre recorded 42mm of rainfall in Golra, 27mm in Bokra, and 35mm at the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) station. Shamsabad experienced the highest rainfall at 52mm, while kachehry recorded 20mm. Meanwhile, Lahore has also experienced light to heavy rain in various parts of the city.

Areas such as Shadman, China Chowk, Lawrence Road, Jail Road, Shah Jamal, Qurtaba Chowk, Davies Road, Mall Road, Gulberg, Firdous Market, and Barkat Market have all reported rainfall. In response to the rain, the Punjab chief minister has issued special instructions to ensure the city's drainage systems remain functional. The WASA Lahore managing director has instructed all staff and machinery at the Monsoon Emergency Camp to remain on full alert. WASA has also been directed to keep the screens of all disposal stations thoroughly clean and ensure that all main highways and underpasses are completely clear of water. All officers and staff have been ordered to be present in the field to manage the situation effectively. The authorities in both Rawalpindi/Islamabad and Lahore are closely monitoring the situation, prepared to take further action if the water levels continue to rise or if additional heavy rainfall occurs.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan