Islamabad Battered by 150mm Rainfall, Multiple Areas Flooded as Emergency Response Intensifies

DC Irfan Memon Inspects Rain-Affected Areas, Orders Swift Response and Urges Citizens to Avoid Rivers, Drains and Waterlogged Areas

Staff Report

ISLAMABAD: The federal capital was battered by exceptionally heavy rainfall, with around 150 millimetres of rain recorded within a short period, triggering widespread water accumulation, overflowing drains, traffic disruptions and emergency response operations across several areas.

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Memon personally visited affected locations to oversee drainage and rescue operations as authorities deployed heavy machinery, dewatering pumps and emergency teams to deal with the situation.

The Islamabad district administration had already been closely monitoring vulnerable and low-lying areas throughout the monsoon season. Following complaints of water accumulation, response teams were immediately mobilised to affected locations, with drainage and dewatering operations launched on an emergency basis.

Sector E-11 was among the worst-affected areas after exceptionally heavy rainfall caused a nearby nullah to overflow beyond its capacity. Water accumulated on roads and entered the basements of several buildings. The district administration said the affected basements had already been sealed as a precautionary measure.

The Deputy Commissioner also conducted a special inspection of Ghauri Town Phase-II, where water overflowed after a nullah was obstructed by slabs placed over it. The blockage disrupted the natural flow of rainwater and contributed to flooding in the surrounding area. The DC directed officials to accelerate dewatering through additional pumps and ordered action against those responsible for obstructing the watercourse.

Meanwhile, Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments, equipped with heavy machinery and emergency equipment, remained deployed in the field to respond to emergencies and carry out relief and drainage operations.

The situation also affected traffic flow on several major roads, including the Islamabad Expressway, where accumulated water caused slow-moving traffic at some locations. Traffic police personnel were deployed to regulate traffic and facilitate the movement of motorists.

Drainage and dewatering operations are continuing in I-8, Ghauri Town, E-11 and other affected areas, while teams are working to clear blocked drains and remove accumulated rainwater.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall in the catchment areas has pushed the Rawal Dam water level to 1,751.90 feet. Authorities have announced that the dam's spillways will be opened at 2:00 PM today, September 1, and have urged residents, particularly those living near rivers, nullahs and waterways, to take necessary precautions and avoid vulnerable areas.

Rescue operations are also underway in D-12/2 following the collapse of a protective wall. According to the district administration, no loss of life has been reported so far.

The Deputy Commissioner said all relevant departments would remain on high alert and continue monitoring vulnerable locations. He urged citizens to exercise extreme caution during the ongoing spell of heavy rain and immediately inform the authorities in case of any emergency.

Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly through low-lying areas, underpasses, nullahs and other water-prone locations, and to follow safety instructions issued by the administration.