Torrential monsoon rains have triggered severe flooding in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with water levels in Nullah Lai, a critical rainwater-fed stream, rising to alarming heights.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported water levels reaching 20 feet at Katarian and 19 feet at Gawalmandi, prompting authorities to issue evacuation alerts for low-lying areas near the Nullah Lai basin. The heavy rainfall, exceeding 230 millimeters in just 15 hours in some areas, has inundated neighborhoods, disrupted traffic, and overwhelmed the city’s drainage infrastructure. The Rawalpindi district administration declared a one-day public holiday on July 17, 2025, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel due to hazardous weather conditions.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) reported that water levels in Nullah Lai reached critical thresholds, with sirens activated to warn residents of potential flash floods. The agency has mobilized heavy machinery and rescue teams equipped with boats and life jackets to manage flooding in vulnerable areas. The PMD has also forecasted intermittent heavy showers for the next 24 to 48 hours, heightening concerns about further flooding.

In response to the crisis, the Pakistan Army’s 111 Brigade has been placed on high alert to assist civil authorities. Army helicopters have already conducted rescue operations, including airlifting a family stranded on their rooftop in Ladian village near Chakri Road, Rawalpindi.

Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and local municipalities are also on high alert, with over 15,000 personnel and 800 rescue boats deployed across Punjab to assist flood-affected areas.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that Punjab has been severely impacted, with 63 deaths and over 290 injuries recorded in rain-related incidents in the past 24 hours. The tragic number continues to mount amid the PMD’s warning of continued heavy rainfall across Punjab, including Lahore, Sargodha, Gujranwala, and other divisions, raising fears of widespread urban flooding.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert, urging residents near nullahs and riverbanks to prepare for immediate evacuation if necessary. For emergencies, the PDMA helpline (1129) and district administration numbers (16 and 1334) are available for immediate assistance.

As the region braces for more rainfall, authorities are prioritizing rapid response and evacuation efforts to mitigate further loss of life and property.