LAHORE: Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds lashed various parts of Lahore today, prompting the city administration to initiate emergency measures.
The Meteorological Department reported a current temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, with winds gusting at 20 kilometers per hour. Forecasters have warned that additional rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours.
In response to the weather conditions, Commissioner Noman Yousaf has directed teams from the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), the Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL), and the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) to remain deployed in the field. Assistant Commissioners have been instructed to personally oversee drainage operations within their respective tehsils to ensure that main highways and underpasses remain clear. Additionally, teams from the Central Business District (CBD) and RODA have been placed on high alert.
To prevent urban flooding, the Commissioner further ordered that disposal stations in areas experiencing power outages be immediately switched to generators to keep pumps operational, with WASA town directors tasked with close monitoring of these sites.
The inclement weather has also impacted regional transit. A Motorway Police spokesperson confirmed rainfall across several stretches of the M-2 Motorway, specifically from Kot Momin to Thokar Niaz Baig, as well as on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway from the main toll plaza to Sambrial. Meanwhile, cloudy conditions prevail on the M-3 Motorway between Faizpur and Nankana.
Due to slippery road conditions, the Motorway Police have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution. Commuters are advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid unnecessary overtaking or sudden braking.
The spokesperson also emphasized the importance of ensuring headlights and wipers are in working order and adhering to lane discipline and seatbelt regulations. In the event of an emergency, motorists are encouraged to contact the Motorway Police helpline at 130.
