Car with Two People Swept Away in Islamabad Storm Drain Amidst Heavy Rains

As Pakistan grapples with widespread destruction caused by recent heavy rains and floods, numerous videos have surfaced depicting landslides and vehicles being carried away by flash floods, spanning regions from Gilgit Baltistan to Islamabad.

A particularly concerning video has emerged from the federal capital, showing a car with two occupants being swept into a storm drain within a private housing society.

The footage, widely shared on social media platforms, captures the vehicle being carried away by the strong current of floodwater, leaving those inside helpless.

The incident reportedly occurred when the residents attempted to drive their car near the storm drain but were overwhelmed by the increased water flow, resulting in them being swept away along with their vehicle.

Rescue teams have initiated a search operation to locate the individuals swept away by the floodwaters.

Reports indicate that the driver of the vehicle has been identified as Colonel (Retd) Ishaq Qazi, who was accompanied by his 25-year-old daughter.

Sources indicate that the retired military officer and his daughter were in a grey car when they encountered accumulated rainwater that caused their vehicle to stall. As Qazi attempted to restart the car, the water level rapidly rose, leading to the vehicle being swept away.

This event coincides with heavy rainfall in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, resulting in flooding in low-lying areas across both cities.

In response, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has activated a city-wide emergency plan to safeguard residents from flooding and waterlogging.

The comprehensive plan encompasses continuous monitoring, rapid-response units, and initiatives to clear blocked drains and flooded roads, all designed to maintain the city’s safe operation during the monsoon season.

“Our utmost priority is readiness and preventative measures,” stated CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa. “We are coordinating closely with all departments to ensure immediate action in any emergency situation.”

The CDA has established an emergency helpline at “1334”, along with a central control center to address public grievances. Residents are encouraged to report issues such as water accumulation, blocked drains, or sewer overflows immediately.