Islamabad and Rawalpindi are facing a crisis as heavy monsoon rains have led to severe urban flooding, resulting in at least 43 fatalities across Punjab in the last 24 hours.

The twin cities recorded over 230mm of rainfall, while Chakwal was particularly hard-hit, experiencing an extraordinary 423mm due to a sudden cloudburst.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) has declared a rain emergency, deploying teams and heavy machinery to address water accumulation in low-lying areas of Rawalpindi.

Wasa’s Managing Director, Saleem Ashraf, confirmed that the agency is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the rising water levels in Nullah Leh, which have reached alarming heights—22 feet at Katarian and 23 feet at Gowalmandi Bridge. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for vulnerable areas as the Pakistan Meteorological Department warns of further rain.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Pakistan Army’s 111 Brigade has been contacted for assistance in emergency rescue operations. Rescue 1122 teams are on high alert, advising residents to evacuate dilapidated buildings and move to safer locations.

The relentless rainfall has also caused flooding in other regions, including Jhelum, where the district administration has called in army support and helicopters to rescue those trapped by rising waters. The situation is dire, with numerous incidents of roof collapses and traffic accidents reported across the province.

In addition to the 43 fatalities recorded recently, the provincial authorities have reported that over 400mm of rain has fallen in certain areas, complicating rescue efforts. The Rawalpindi deputy commissioner has announced a one-day holiday in the district, urging the public to remain indoors to ensure their safety.