Islamabad, June 24, 2025: As pre-monsoon rains loom, authorities in Rawalpindi have issued final evacuation notices to residents of 285 dilapidated multi-storey buildings, many of which are over a century old. These fragile structures, scattered across the inner city, face the risk of collapse due to heavy rain and flooding.
The Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC), District Council, cantonment boards, and Evacuee Trust Property Board have ramped up joint efforts to prevent any disasters in flood-prone zones. Many of these aging buildings date back to the British colonial and Hindu periods and are mainly located in densely populated areas like Raja Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar, and Banni Mohalla.
Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema has enforced a strict ban on dumping garbage and construction waste into Nullah Leh—the city’s primary 22-kilometre-long drainage system—and its 15 surrounding stormwater drains. Police have been directed to file FIRs against violators to ensure the drains remain clear ahead of predicted rain.
With pre-monsoon showers expected next week, residents near Nullah Leh are taking precautionary measures. Many have started relocating furniture, appliances, and valuables, while some families have temporarily moved to safer areas.
To further boost flood preparedness in Rawalpindi, the Civil Defence Department, the district administration, and the 111 Brigade will conduct joint flood drills in vulnerable areas such as Javed Colony and Nadeem Colony. These exercises, involving Rescue 1122, police, and Civil Defence teams, are scheduled for next week.
In a major move, the Evacuee Trust Property Board has instructed tenants of high-risk residential and commercial buildings in Purana Qila, Bagh Sardaran, Jhanda Mohalla, Jamia Masjid Road, and Trunk Bazaar to vacate by June 30. Structures not evacuated on time face immediate demolition. However, several occupants have approached the courts to challenge the orders. The court has summoned detailed reports from both the RMC and District Council.
Meanwhile, 15 temporary Civil Defence posts have been set up in key flood-threatened areas to manage emergencies efficiently.
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According to officials, the official flood season in Rawalpindi begins on July 1 and lasts until September 15, with over 70% of the city’s residential and commercial areas historically impacted by seasonal flooding.
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District Civil Defence Officer Talib Hussain confirmed that all flood emergency arrangements have been finalized and the city is on high alert for the coming days.
