A prominent Rawalpindi-based activist has blamed the opening of Rawal Dam’s spillways for worsening the recent flooding.
Citizen Action Committee President Malik Zaheer Awan claimed Islamabad was protected from flooding at Rawalpindi’s expense.
The city faced severe flooding after heavy rainfall caused water levels to rise rapidly. Several commercial and residential areas were inundated.
According to reports, Rawal Dam reached its capacity following persistent heavy rain. Authorities then opened the dam’s spillways during the day.
The released water combined with flows from Nullah Korang. Both water flows eventually entered the River Soan.
Awan claimed the additional water placed further pressure on the River Soan. He said this reduced the river’s ability to handle water from Nullah Leh.
According to his account, the situation caused water to back up into Nullah Leh. The floodwater then entered Rawalpindi through the city’s drainage system.
The resulting Rawalpindi Flooding affected several major commercial centers and densely populated neighborhoods.
Floodwater from Nullah Leh also combined with water from around 15 rainwater drains. This caused widespread inundation across several parts of the city.
Among the affected locations were Raja Bazaar and Fawara Chowk. Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar also experienced flooding.
Other affected areas included Dingi Khoi Chowk, Jamia Masjid Road and College Road. Naya Mohalla was also hit by floodwater.
The flooding caused major disruption in areas that normally experience heavy pedestrian and commercial activity.
Awan argued that better management of the Rawal Dam spillways could have reduced the impact. He questioned the timing of the spillway operation.
He claimed the spillways should have been opened on Monday night. Alternatively, he said they could have been opened after 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
According to Awan, earlier or better-timed water releases could have reduced pressure on downstream areas.
He further alleged that the decision helped protect Islamabad while increasing the flood risk for Rawalpindi.
“Rawalpindi city could have been saved. Islamabad was saved at the cost of drowning Rawalpindi,” Awan said.
The claims come as authorities continue dealing with the effects of the flooding. The incident has also raised concerns about urban drainage and flood management.
The Rawalpindi Flooding has renewed attention on the city’s ability to manage extreme rainfall. It has also highlighted the importance of coordinated water management.
In other news read more about Urban Flooding Worsened by Blocked Drains and Poor Planning in Punjab
Officials have yet to publicly confirm Awan’s allegations about the spillway timing. Further assessments may determine how dam releases contributed to the flooding.
