Rawal Dam spillways to be opened Monday AM after water level rises due to monsoon rains

The Islamabad district administration have decided to open the spillways of Rawal Dam at 6am on Monday, Aug.31 as the water level in the reservoir has gone high due to continuous monsoon rainfall.

The water level at Rawal Dam has reached at 1,751.40 feet, therefore, the district administration opened the spillway as precautionary measure.

Early Monday, the spillways will be opened to control the reservoir and safely pass further inflows from recent rainfall.

Police and rescue 1122 put on alert

The administration has asked Rescue 1122, Police and other concerned departments to keep vigilant as water is being discharged from the dam.

Officials have also been asked to make appropriate provisions of safety and precaution before opening the spillways.

The procedures are meant to help ensure a coordinated response should rising water downstream cause an emergency situation.

Public advised to keep clear from canal

Safety advisory issued to locals to stay away from streams, storm-water drains, waterways and low-lying areas during the discharge.

Authorities have urged the public living or travelling near downstream areas to exercise extreme caution and follow recommendations provided by local authorities.

The warning comes as the prolonged monsoon conditions have raised water levels in reservoirs and waterways across sections of the region.

Authorities underlined the need of not approaching water bodies to view the discharge as water levels and currents might escalate quickly when the spillways are opened.

Why are the spillways of Rawal Dam being opened?

Opening spillways is a reservoir-management method to discharge surplus water when inflows bring water levels toward operational limits.

Controlled releases also provide additional storage capacity for additional inflows and relieve strain on the reservoir during times of severe rains.

Monsoon conditions continue and authorities are constantly monitoring Rawal Dam and waterways around it.

Residents are advised to heed government warnings and avoid unnecessary travel in regions likely to be affected by the higher downstream floods.