Floodwaters block Zhob–Dera Ismail Khan highway, leaving passengers stranded

The busy national highway from Zhob to Dera Ismail Khan was brought to a standstill late Sunday night when floodwaters swept across the road. Heavy overnight rainfall caused dry streams in the area to overflow, sending torrents onto the highway.

Gundi Ashiq, already considered a naturally vulnerable section, was completely submerged by the intensity of the water. Eyewitnesses reported that the fast-moving waves reached vehicle tires, leaving several stranded.

The scene was chaotic: long queues of buses, trucks, cars, and motorcycles came to a halt. Passengers got out of their vehicles, checking on each other; children cried, women were distressed, and elderly passengers sat exhausted. The air was filled with the smell of rain, the roar of rushing water, and anxious chatter.

One affected passenger, Ghulam Muhammad, told The Express Tribune, “We were heading to Dera Ismail Khan early in the morning with our whole family when suddenly we saw a wall of water ahead. We have been stuck here for hours. The children’s food is finished, and our mobile batteries are dead. Only Allah can help us now.”

Meanwhile, a female passenger said, “I was taking my daughter to the doctor. What should I do now? The road is blocked, and there is no one to help.”

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District administration officials, the National Highway Authority, and Rescue 1122 teams immediately reached the site. Heavy machinery, bulldozers, and labour teams were deployed to clear the water and reopen the highway as quickly as possible.

Authorities stated that the situation is under constant monitoring, and efforts are underway to restore traffic by noon. However, the water level remains high, making vehicle movement currently impossible.

Officials strongly urged passengers not to travel on this route without prior confirmation and to use alternative roads. This national highway serves as the main link between Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and its closure is affecting not only the general public but also commercial transport, trucks, and daily trade.

The administration confirmed that road-clearing operations are progressing rapidly, and updates will be issued as soon as the highway reopens.

Travellers are advised to exercise extreme caution during the rainy season, check weather forecasts, avoid flood-prone areas, and stay updated. Safe travel is your responsibility.