ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) — Islamabad district authorities have decided to open the Rawal Dam spillways at 6 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 31, after persistent monsoon rains pushed the reservoir's water level higher.
According to the district administration, the water level at Rawal Dam has reached 1,751.40 feet, prompting authorities to release excess water as a precautionary measure.
The spillways will be opened early Monday to regulate the reservoir and safely discharge additional inflows resulting from recent rainfall.
Rescue 1122, police placed on alert
The administration has directed Rescue 1122, police and other relevant departments to remain on high alert while water is being released from the dam.
Officials have also been instructed to complete necessary safety and precautionary arrangements before the spillways are opened.
The measures are aimed at ensuring a coordinated response in case rising water downstream creates an emergency situation.
Public warned to stay away from waterways
Authorities have issued a safety advisory urging residents to avoid streams, storm-water drains, waterways and low-lying areas during the discharge.
People living or travelling near downstream areas have been asked to exercise particular caution and comply with instructions issued by local authorities.
The warning comes as continuing monsoon conditions have increased water levels in reservoirs and waterways across parts of the region.
Officials stressed that people should not approach waterways to watch the discharge because water levels and currents can rise rapidly after the spillways are opened.
Why Rawal Dam spillways are being opened
Opening spillways is a reservoir-management measure used to discharge surplus water when inflows push water levels towards operational limits.
Controlled releases help create additional storage capacity for further inflows and reduce pressure on the reservoir during periods of heavy rainfall.
With monsoon conditions continuing, authorities are closely monitoring Rawal Dam and surrounding waterways.
Residents have been advised to follow official warnings and avoid unnecessary movement near areas potentially affected by increased downstream flows.