Rawal Dam water level rises sharply after heavy rains

Rawal Dam spillways will open after heavy rain. File photo
Rawal Dam spillways will open after heavy rain. File photo
Published September 1, 2026 12:00 AM
ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Rawal Dam spillways will open after heavy rain pushes the water level to 1751.90 ft, while authorities alert residents in low-lying areas and near drains.

The water level at Rawal Dam has risen sharply following heavy rainfall in Islamabad and nearby areas.

The Islamabad district administration has decided to open the dam’s spillways at 2:00pm to manage the rising water level.

District authorities said the water level at Rawal Dam had reached 1751.90 ft.

The decision has prompted authorities to increase monitoring around the dam and nearby areas.

Rescue teams put on alert

Rescue 1122, police, and other relevant departments have been directed to remain alert during the opening of the spillways.

Officials have also been instructed to take precautionary measures to deal with any possible increase in water flow. The district administration has urged residents to stay away from drains and low-lying areas.

People living near streams and drainage channels have also been advised to remain cautious, as water levels could change quickly. Authorities are monitoring the situation to reduce risks to people living in vulnerable areas.

Roof collapses in Islamabad

The heavy rainfall has also caused damage in parts of Islamabad.

A rooftop of a house collapsed in Sector G-III during the downpour, killing one man and injuring another. Police said the dead man’s body and the injured person were recovered from the debris.

The injured person was shifted to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for treatment. The incident highlights the risks created by heavy rainfall, particularly in areas where buildings may be vulnerable to water-related damage.

Nullah Lai water level under watch

Authorities are also closely monitoring the water level in Nullah Lai and other drains across Rawalpindi.

Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir said the water level at Gawalmandi had started falling after reaching a higher level earlier.

“The water level in Nullah Lai is going down at Gawalmandi and dropped from earlier 26 feet to 21 ft,” he said.

The water level at Kattarian was also recorded at 21 ft. Despite the decline at some points, authorities remain alert because further rainfall could quickly increase the flow in the drain.

Warning sirens sounded in Rawalpindi

Warning sirens were sounded after the water flow in Nullah Lai increased.

Residents living in nearby areas were alerted about the possibility of a further rise in water levels. Authorities have asked people to avoid unnecessary movement near drains and other water channels.

Also Read: Rawalpindi rain emergency as Pakistan Army joins rescue efforts

The warnings are aimed at preventing accidents, as fast-moving water can become dangerous during periods of heavy rain. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation at different points along Nullah Lai.

Rawalpindi receives heavy rainfall

Rawalpindi has received exceptionally heavy rainfall, with several areas recording significant amounts.

Shamsabad recorded 195 millimetres of rain, the highest amount reported in the city. New Kattarian received 180mm, while Golra recorded 157mm.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded 146mm of rainfall. The heavy downpour has increased pressure on the city’s drainage system and raised water levels in several areas.

Man dies after electrocution

Another rain-related death was reported from Rawalpindi. Police said a 50-year-old man, identified as Ibrahim Qaiser, was electrocuted after rainwater entered Arya Mohalla.

The incident has raised further concerns about electrical safety during heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to avoid standing water near electric poles, wires, and other electrical installations.

Authorities urge public to remain cautious

The latest developments have prompted authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to increase their emergency preparedness. The opening of Rawal Dam spillways, rising water levels in Nullah Lai, and heavy rainfall across the twin cities have increased the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.

Residents near drains, streams and low-lying locations are being urged to follow official warnings. People should also avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and stay away from fast-moving water.

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