Rain exposes river bank encroachments

The recent monsoon downpour in Rawalpindi and Islamabad resulted in widespread flooding, significant property damage, and loss of life. Authorities have identified illegal construction on natural water channels as the primary cause.

Investigations confirmed that water passages in residential areas, greenbelts, open fields, and private housing societies were obstructed or altered.

Without proper drainage infrastructure, the water surged into urban centres, submerging low-lying areas and exposing systemic planning failures. In response, the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has initiated a joint task force involving the Rawalpindi and Chaklala Cantonment Boards, the Pakistan Army, and other departments. A high-level meeting, chaired by RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza, stressed immediate enforcement of existing laws and the removal of encroachments along rivers.

The meeting resolved to restore natural water flow routes and enforce "Right of Way" laws to prevent future disasters. Officials acknowledged that poor planning, blocked stormwater drains, and unauthorised land development contributed directly to the crisis. Authorities pledged to rehabilitate flood-prone areas and ensure that natural waterways remain unobstructed, thus avoiding repeat scenarios of flood-induced destruction.