Lahore – July 23, 2025 | Heavy Rain Hits Lahore woke up to refreshing showers on Wednesday, but what started as a pleasant weather shift quickly turned into a citywide emergency as moderate to heavy rain disrupted daily life across several localities.
The Lahore Commissioner, Zaid bin Maqsood, swiftly responded by declaring an emergency and activating rapid-response teams from multiple departments to prevent urban flooding and traffic chaos.
Which Areas Were Affected by the Rain?
The rainfall impacted key residential and commercial zones across the city, including:
- Muslim Town
- Garden Town
- Ichhra
- Wahdat Road
- Rehmanpura
- Iqbal Town
- Shadman
- Shah Jamal
In these areas, residents reported temporary water accumulation, leading to traffic bottlenecks and slow-moving vehicles during rush hours.
Emergency Measures Ordered by the Commissioner
Commissioner Zaid bin Maqsood ordered all disposal stations in Lahore to operate at full capacity and directed field teams from WASA, LDA, CBD, and traffic police to remain active throughout the day.
Key instructions included:
- Immediate clearance of choked drains
- Continuous drainage from low-lying areas
- Assistant Commissioners in each tehsil to supervise ground operations
- Traffic police to ensure smooth vehicular movement in affected areas
The commissioner emphasized public safety, urging residents to avoid contact with electric poles and promptly report any emergencies.
Read more: Met Office Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert from July 21-25 Across Pakistan
High Alert Issued to Prevent Urban Flooding
Given Lahore’s infrastructure vulnerability to heavy rainfall, particularly in older neighborhoods, the commissioner stressed rapid drainage and real-time monitoring.
“Water drainage must be ensured on all major roads, especially in flood-prone zones,” said Zaid bin Maqsood.
The city’s emergency control rooms are actively monitoring the situation using real-time data, satellite tracking, and input from on-ground teams.
More Rain Ahead? Here’s What the Met Office Says
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), more rainfall is expected in the next 24 hours, potentially worsening the situation if preventive measures are not fully implemented.
The PMD has urged citizens to stay indoors during peak downpour periods and avoid non-essential travel.
Traffic Advisory Issued for Lahore Commuters
With reports of water accumulation on roads such as Ferozepur Road, Canal Road, and Mall Road, traffic authorities have advised motorists to:
- Take alternate routes where possible
- Avoid underpasses and low-lying intersections
- Maintain low speeds in wet conditions
- Keep distance between vehicles due to slippery roads
Lahore’s Ongoing Struggle with Rainwater Management
Despite multiple infrastructure projects, Lahore continues to struggle with rainwater drainage, especially in older parts of the city. Last year’s urban flooding episodes triggered similar emergency responses.
This time, authorities claim they are better prepared, but residents remain skeptical unless long-term solutions—such as upgraded drainage systems and smart infrastructure—are implemented.
