RAWALPINDI: The district administration has officially declared a Flood Emergency period in Rawalpindi. The decision will remain in effect from June 15 to September 15.
Officials said the move comes after forecasts of above-normal rainfall. There is also an increased risk of urban flooding during the upcoming monsoon season. Authorities aim to improve preparedness and reduce potential damage.
A central flood monitoring control room will be established at the Civil Defence Office. The system will operate under Army supervision throughout the Flood Emergency period.
Officials confirmed that a unit of the 111 Brigade will stay on high alert. The troops will remain ready to respond to any emergency situation during the season.
After Eid holidays, Rescue 1122 and Civil Defence teams will take part in full-scale training exercises. These drills will be held at Rawal Dam. The focus will be on rescuing people trapped in floodwaters.
Military personnel will also participate in the training exercises. Authorities said this joint effort will improve coordination during the Flood Emergency response.
To improve warning systems, the administration has introduced manual emergency sirens. These devices will be used in case of power outages during heavy rainfall.
The hand-operated sirens can work without electricity. They will be installed at Civil Defence ward posts in flood-prone areas.
Officials said the system is designed to ensure timely alerts during critical situations. This will help reduce risks during the Flood Emergency period.
In case of severe flooding, five relief camps will be activated across the city. These include schools located on Murree Road, Liaquat Road, and other low-lying areas.
The identified shelters include Islamia Higher Secondary School No. 1, Islamia High School near Liaquat Bagh, and several government girls’ schools in Dhoke Hassu, Dhoke Ratta, and Gawalmandi.
Authorities have also ordered urgent cleaning operations. Desilting work is underway in Leh Nullah and 15 seasonal drains.
Officials said these drains often overflow during heavy monsoon rains. Proper clearance is expected to reduce flooding risks during the Flood Emergency period.
The administration emphasized that all departments must stay alert. Continuous monitoring will remain in place to manage any developing situation during the monsoon season.
In other news read more about Met Office Forecasts Rain in Punjab and Several Parts of Pakistan Until June 5
Residents have been advised to follow safety instructions and stay updated with official alerts throughout the Flood Emergency period.
