Seven flood relief camps established in high-risk areas; Army on high alert
With the monsoon season underway, the Rawalpindi district administration has officially declared a flood emergency and established seven fully-equipped flood relief camps in vulnerable zones to provide immediate support to at-risk residents.
These camps are stocked with food, drinking water, medical supplies, bedding, and shelter, and are supported by a coordinated inter-departmental response. The flood season, spanning July 15 to August 31, coincides with heightened flood risk along the 22-kilometre-long Nullah Leh and 15 other stormwater drains.
To ensure round-the-clock monitoring, a 24/7 Flood Control Room has been activated at the District Civil Defence Office in Kachehri, bringing together personnel from all key departments, including the military.
The Pakistan Army’s Triple One Brigade has been placed on red alert, equipped with rescue boats, life jackets, and other emergency gear. Military officers have already begun discreet surveillance of Nullah Leh as a precautionary measure.
Flood Relief Camps and Roles Assigned
Relief camps have been set up at the following government schools located near flood-prone, low-lying areas:
- Islamia Higher Secondary School No. 1
- Islamia Higher Secondary School No. 4
- Girls School New Katarian
- Girls School Khayaban-e-Sir Syed
- Girls School Dhoke Ratta
- Girls School/College Dhoke Hassu
- Girls College Gawalmandi
Key departmental responsibilities at the camps include:
- Education Department: Shelter and camp coordination
- Revenue Department: Food provision
- Health Department: Medical care and supplies
- Local Police: Security management
- RTA Secretary Office: Transportation of displaced individuals
Each designated classroom has been pre-furnished with essential items, including bedding. Even after schools reopen on August 15, two to three classrooms per school will remain reserved for flood relief use.
Enhanced Early Warning System Activated
The district’s early warning flood alert system has been upgraded to full operational status. In the event of dangerously rising water levels in Nullah Leh or other storm drains, warning sirens will be triggered, accompanied by mosque loudspeaker announcements to alert local communities in real time.
Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema officially inaugurated the flood control setup. District Civil Defence Officer Talib Hussain, who also serves as the DC’s focal person for flood operations, confirmed that 15 check posts have been deployed across low-lying areas, each staffed with 5 to 10 trained volunteers.
The administration has reiterated its commitment to a swift and coordinated response to mitigate flood-related risks and ensure public safety throughout the monsoon period.
