As relentless monsoon rains continue to batter Pakistan, a distressing incident unfolded in Islamabad where a vehicle was swept away by raging floodwaters in a private housing society — underscoring the growing threat of urban flooding across the country.

The viral video of the incident, now circulating widely on social media, shows a car helplessly drifting in a powerful stream of floodwater before being pulled into a nearby storm drain. Eyewitnesses reported that the occupants appeared unable to escape the vehicle in time.

Victims Identified Amid Ongoing Search

According to initial reports, the car was driven by Colonel (retd) Ishaq Qazi, who was accompanied by his 25-year-old daughter. The two were on their way out when their grey vehicle stalled near an overflowing storm drain. As Qazi reportedly attempted to restart the car, a sudden surge of water caused the vehicle to lose traction and get swept away.

Authorities from the housing society revealed that the retired officer had left his residence around 8:15 am, despite warnings issued earlier about a potential cloudburst in the region. Shortly after their departure, the car was dragged into the storm drain, triggering an urgent rescue mission.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Rescue 1122 teams, under the supervision of their Director General, are actively conducting search operations at Soan Bridge and Gorakhpur, where the storm drain converges with the Soan River. A helicopter has also been deployed to assist in locating the missing victims, while ground teams continue navigating difficult terrain and waterlogged areas.

Widespread Rainfall Recorded

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) recorded significant rainfall across the federal capital and Rawalpindi:

• Saidpur: 38mm
• Bokra: 23mm
• Golra: 22mm
• Airport area: 19mm
• Zero Point: 17mm
• Chaklala: 24mm
• Shamsabad: 14mm
• Pirwadhai: 13mm
• Gowalmandi: 12mm

These downpours resulted in water accumulation in multiple low-lying areas, increasing the risk of further flash floods.

CDA Responds with Emergency Measures

In response to the growing threat, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has activated an emergency response plan, involving continuous monitoring of water levels, deployment of rapid-response teams, and clearing of stormwater drains to prevent further flooding.

“Our top priority is preparedness and prevention,” said CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa. “All relevant departments are coordinating closely to ensure swift action in case of emergencies.”

The CDA has also launched a dedicated emergency helpline (1334) and established a central control room to manage public complaints related to waterlogging, blocked drains, and sewage issues.

A Wake-Up Call for Urban Resilience

This tragic event, combined with similar flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan and other parts of the country, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for better urban planning, flood management infrastructure, and climate resilience strategies in Pakistan’s major cities.

As families await news of their loved ones and rescue efforts intensify, the nation watches closely — hoping for positive outcomes in the face of growing climate-driven emergencies.