Heavy rain lashed the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Wednesday morning, resulting in an alarming increase in the water level in Lai Nullah, and forcing the people to leave their homes.The water level at Katarian reached the 21 feet mark, while it was recorded at over 17 feet in Gawalmandi. However, later water levels at different points around the nullah dropped. 113 millimeters of rain was recorded in E-11 sector of the federal capital near Golrra.

Similarly, 71 millimeters of rain was recorded at Saidpur village, 57 millimeters at PMD H-8/2; 59 millimeters at New Katarian; 51 millimeters at Pir Wadhai; 45 millimeters at Bokra, Shamsabad and Gawalmandi each, and 33 millimeters at Chaklala.  Rescue teams took their positions around Nullah Lai.   The authorities urged people to avoid crossing streams and nullahs; ask their children to stay away from electric wires and poles; keep the speed of their vehicles slow; avoid going near weak structures, and avoid visiting tourist resorts.

They asked people to immediately dial helpline number 1122 in case of an emergency. The level of humidity in the federal capital was recorded at 71 per cent, while breeze was blowing at the speed of nine kilometers per hour.  Teams of the district administration constantly monitored low-lying areas.On the other hand, the Met Office said that a rain-producing system was active in the Potohar region as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir.  Under the impact of the system, it added, more thundershowers were expected in the abovementioned areas during the next 24 hours.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)