Lahore Breaks 44-Year Rainfall Record: Roads Turn to Rivers

Lahore experienced its heaviest rainfall in 44 years, transforming its famous highways into rivers and streams. The unprecedented downpour led to tragic incidents, including the death of a young girl and injuries to five others in two roof collapse incidents.

The continuous rain caused Lesco’s feeders to trip, leading to power outages across the city. Schools and offices were closed to prevent further damage from the relentless rainfall.

Rainfall Statistics

According to recent data, the Lahore airport recorded 300 mm of rain, breaking all previous records. Most city areas experienced over 200 mm of rain. Nishtar Town saw 250 mm, Paniwala Talab 226 mm, Johar Town 220 mm, Tajpura 220 mm, and Cordoba Chowk 218 mm. WASA reported that Farrukhabad received 215 mm, Gulshan Ravi 210 mm, Iqbal Town 205 mm, Samanabad 203 mm, and Lakshmi Chowk 199 mm of rain.

This is the second heavy rainfall event of the monsoon season, with Tajpura previously recording 315 mm.

Emergency Response

In response, Lahore’s Commissioner declared a rain emergency, closing schools and offices. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz ordered the rapid drainage of water from Lahore and other affected areas. Relevant departments received alerts, and administrative officers and workers were instructed to remain in the field.

Casualties and Damage

The heavy rain claimed three lives, including two children and an adult. Six houses sustained significant damage. A boy drowned near Chungi Amar Sadhu, with rescue teams recovering his body. The victim was identified as 14-year-old Abdullah. PDMA assured that victims would receive compensation.

Travel Advisory

The Lahore administration advised residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the government’s commitment to clearing the waterlogged streets quickly. “Despite the heaviest rainfall in 45 years, roads and streets are being cleared in unprecedented time,” she said.

Market and Airport Disruptions

The fruit and vegetable market in Lahore turned into a river, with produce submerged in several feet of water. Vendors complained about the persistent poor conditions of the market, which have remained unchanged for 30 years. Rainwater also surrounded the Jamia Masjid of Sabzi Mandi.

Flight operations at Allama Iqbal International Airport were disrupted, causing delays. PIA’s PK-229 to Muscat and Air Blue’s PA-401 to Karachi were among the affected flights.

Rainfall Data

Lahore has been experiencing intermittent rain since 5:00 am. The highest rainfall recorded was 350 mm on Airport Road, followed by 282 mm in Nishtar Town, 226 mm in Paniwala Talab, 232 mm in Iqbal Town, and 222 mm in Johar Town. Other areas like Farrukhabad, Mughalpura, Lakshmi Chowk, Chowk Nakhuda, and Gulshan Ravi recorded significant rainfall as well.

Power Outages

The rain caused 288 LESCO feeders to trip, leading to widespread power outages in Shahdara, Shafiqabad, Kasurpura, Gulshan Ravi, Sanda, Mozang, Shadman, GOR, Lawrence Road, Samanabad, Iqbal Town, Johar Town, Township, Green Town, and Kot Lakhpat. LESCO’s CEO issued a high alert to ensure power restoration.

Traffic Chaos

The heavy monsoon rain severely affected traffic management in Lahore. Major highways were inundated, causing long queues of vehicles. The main highway from Barakat Market to Kalma Chowk was completely submerged. Commuters faced significant delays, and pedestrians and motorcyclists were particularly vulnerable.

The Lahore Traffic Police deployed wardens to provide alternative routes. Two traffic wardens at Kalma Chowk Underpass helped direct traffic. Tragically, a girl died, and six people were injured in a roof collapse in Gajjumata. One person was electrocuted in Nishat Colony.

The Lahore civil administration advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel throughout the day. The city remains on high alert as authorities work to mitigate the impact of this historic rainfall.

Read More: Heavy Rains In Karachi, Bringing City to a Standstill

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