Torrential rains flood Pakistan’s Rawalpindi as authorities declare local holiday

District authorities in Pakistan's Rawalpindi imposed a rain emergency and declared a local holiday across the district on Tuesday following severe urban flooding triggered by relentless overnight torrential rains.

The heavy downpour caused rainwater channels and Nullah Lai to swell dangerously, submerging streets and inundating hundreds of residential properties across low-lying neighborhoods.

Which areas in Rawalpindi and Islamabad were hardest hit by the urban flooding?

The continuous rainfall turned primary arterial roads across the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad into virtual water bodies, stalling vehicles and stranding commuters.

Floodwaters entered residential homes and commercial premises across several densely populated sectors, including Dhok Kala Khan, Bostan Colony, Chungi Number Four, Murree Hazara Colony, Old Airport Road, Scheme-III, Jan Colony, and Fauji Colony.

Emergency teams from the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Rawalpindi and Rescue 1122 deployed heavy drainage pumps to clear major intersections. Authorities urged residents living near the banks of Nullah Lai—particularly near the Katarian and Gawalmandi bridges—to remain vigilant and prepare for potential evacuations as water levels approached pre-alert thresholds.

What administrative measures were implemented under the local holiday order?

Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Captain (retd.) Nadeem Nasir issued an official notification declaring Tuesday, September 1, a local public holiday across Rawalpindi district. Under the administrative directive, all public and private educational institutions, local government departments, and administrative offices remained closed to reduce commuter traffic and prevent accidents in flooded corridors.

However, the notification explicitly exempted essential service providers. Personnel from WASA, the municipal corporation, civil defense, rescue services, and district health authorities remained deployed on high alert to assist stranded residents, clear clogged drainage routes, and manage emergency relief operations across the twin cities.