Rawalpindi declares holidays for school, colleges and universities amid flood threat
Schools close amid rising flood threats
Authorities have announced a Rawalpindi schools holiday as heavy rain continues to create a serious flooding situation across the city.
All government and private schools, colleges and other educational institutions have been ordered to remain closed as a safety measure.
The decision came after a Rawalpindi flood warning was issued because of rapidly rising water in Nullah Lai.
The Nullah Lai water level crossed 28 feet at Katarian, while it reached around 23.5 feet at Gawalmandi.
Danger sirens were sounded near Gawalmandi as authorities prepared for possible flooding in nearby residential areas.
Several areas under water
The Rawalpindi rain emergency has been declared as several parts of the city have been badly affected by the downpour.
Water entered shops in Raja Bazaar, Jamia Masjid Road and Imambargah Chowk.
Low-lying areas including Arya Mohalla, Millat Colony, Javed Colony and Dhoke Khabba were also submerged.
Homes in Safdarabad, Gali Loharan and Fauji Colony near Pirwadhai were affected by rainwater.
The Rawalpindi schools closure is part of the emergency response as officials try to reduce public movement during the dangerous weather.
Water level remains a major threat
The rising Nullah Lai water level has become one of the biggest concerns for the administration.
Residents living close to the waterway have been advised to move to safer places if necessary.
The heavy rain Rawalpindi has received has also caused flooding in other locations, with vehicles reported submerged in Awan Colony.
Water has accumulated on Chaudhry Road, Sadiqabad Service Road, Dhoke Kala Khan and Mochi Bazaar.
The Rawalpindi flooding has disrupted normal life and created difficult conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
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More rain expected
The National Disaster Management Authority has forecast more rain during the next 48 hours.
Rain is expected in parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials have warned that continued rainfall could increase water flows in rivers, streams and nullahs.
This could further increase the Rawalpindi flood risk, particularly in low-lying areas.
The administration is continuing to monitor the Nullah Lai water level and has urged residents to follow official instructions.
Residents urged to stay alert
People in vulnerable locations have been advised to move to safer places if authorities issue evacuation instructions.
Residents should also avoid flooded roads, fast-moving water and areas close to Nullah Lai.
The Rawalpindi schools closure will remain an important precaution while authorities assess the developing situation.
The Rawalpindi rain emergency is expected to continue as officials remain on alert for further rainfall.
