RAWALPINDI: Torrential rainfall has disrupted normal life in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with the district administration declaring a local holiday in Rawalpindi amid concerns over flooding and rising water levels in Nullah Lai.

Rain continued intermittently across the region, while water levels in Nullah Lai began receding after reaching a dangerous peak. At Kattarian, the water level dropped to around 9 feet, while at Gawalmandi it fell from a peak of 23.5 feet to 13.5 feet.

Earlier, emergency sirens were sounded as water levels in Nullah Lai rose sharply, prompting authorities to direct residents living in low-lying areas along the watercourse to evacuate.

The administration had warned that a major flood surge from Islamabad was moving towards Rawalpindi and ordered the evacuation of vulnerable communities as a precaution.

At Kattarian, the water level had initially reached 14.5 feet before crossing the pre-alert level and subsequently rising to 18.5 feet. At Gawalmandi, the level increased from 7 feet to 11 feet.

The flood surge from Nullah Lai also entered the River Soan, where high-level flooding was reported. Several areas, including parts of GT Road, private housing societies, Adiala Road, Chontra, Chakri and Chak Beli, were affected by the flooding.

Heavy rainfall was recorded across Rawalpindi and Islamabad. New Katarian received 120 millimetres of rain, Golra recorded 119mm, while Shamsabad received 104mm.

Earlier, rainfall of 101mm, 90mm and 75mm had been recorded at the respective locations.

Authorities issued a rain alert for the catchment areas of Nullah Lai, warning that further rainfall could cause water levels to rise rapidly and increase the risk of flooding.

All relevant departments and emergency response agencies have been placed on alert.

In view of the heavy rainfall and flood situation, the Rawalpindi deputy commissioner issued a notification declaring September 1 a local holiday across the district.

All relevant government offices and institutions will remain closed under the notification. However, emergency departments, institutions and authorities will continue functioning as normal.

The district administration urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from Nullah Lai and other low-lying areas.

Residents living along the banks of Nullah Lai were advised to vacate their homes and move to safer locations if necessary.

Water accumulation on the Islamabad Expressway also caused several vehicles to become stranded, disrupting traffic.

The Rawalpindi deputy commissioner said the army remained available to assist relief agencies. He added that the Triple One Brigade was in contact with the administration but had not yet been formally called in.

Rainwater caused significant disruption in Rawalpindi’s Union Council 44, Dhoke Farman Ali, where overflowing stormwater drains sent water into streets and residential buildings.

In Islamabad, particularly E-11, around 150mm of rain fell within a short period, causing a drain to overflow and sending water onto roads.

Water also entered some basements that had previously been sealed by the district administration. Dewatering operations were launched under the supervision of the Islamabad deputy commissioner.

A protective wall collapsed in D-12/2, prompting rescue and relief operations. Officials said there were no reports of casualties or major financial losses from the incident.

Water accumulation on the Express Highway and several other major roads slowed traffic, with traffic police deployed to manage the situation.

Heavy rainfall also inundated the food street on Double Road in Rawalpindi, with water entering several restaurants.

Traders said furniture, electronic equipment and other valuable items were damaged, causing losses reportedly running into millions of rupees.

Business owners complained that effective drainage measures had not yet been taken by the Water and Sanitation Agency or the district administration.

Rawalpindi’s historic Raja Bazaar was also affected by rainwater, disrupting commercial activity and raising concerns about damage to merchandise.

Local traders said the area had faced a similar situation several times in the past, claiming that this was the fifth such incident.

The traders called for immediate drainage measures and urged authorities to develop a permanent solution to prevent the recurring flooding that disrupts businesses whenever heavy rain hits the city.

With more rainfall possible, authorities have advised residents to remain alert, avoid vulnerable areas and follow evacuation instructions issued by the administration.