Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, has been hit by heavy rainfall, resulting in inundated roads and submerged low-lying areas. The Tajpura area received a staggering 242 millimeters of rain, while other neighborhoods like Lakshmi Chowk, Pani Wala Talab, and Qurtuba Chowk received over 100 millimeters of rainfall. The downpour has caused significant disruption to daily life, with power outages reported in many areas.

The rainfall has also affected other cities in the province, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Jehlam, Mandibahauddin, Hafizabad, Sargodha, and Pakpattan. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned of more heavy rainfall in the coming days, with Karachi expected to receive heavy rain after July 20.

The Punjab Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has directed the local administration and Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) authorities to take immediate measures to drain stormwater in all cities. Staff and officers have been deployed to vulnerable areas to ensure prompt drainage of rainwater. Rescue 1122 and other departments have been put on high alert to deal with any emergency situations that may arise.

The heavy rainfall has brought relief from the sweltering heat, but it has also created challenges for the residents of Lahore and other affected cities. The government’s prompt response to the situation is commendable, and efforts to drain stormwater and restore normalcy are underway. As the monsoon season continues, it is essential for the authorities to remain vigilant and prepared to deal with any future rainfall-related emergencies.