As heavy monsoon showers continue to drench Islamabad, on Tuesday, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has jumped into action with a city-wide emergency response plan to protect residents from flooding and waterlogging.
Led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and supervised by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, the plan includes round-the-clock monitoring, rapid-response teams, and efforts to clear drains and flooded roads — all aimed at keeping the city running safely during the rainy season.
“Our top priority is preparedness and prevention,” said Chairman Randhawa. “We’re working closely with all departments to ensure immediate action in any emergency.”
He said CDA is preparing Islamabad for more rainy days ahead, like dewatering machines have been sent to low-lying areas to quickly drain standing water.
Storm drains and nullahs in critical areas like IJP Road, Khanna Pul, and Sector E-11 are being cleaned regularly to prevent blockages. A modern rain monitoring system is being installed to track water levels in real time.
Rapid-response teams, armed with the latest equipment, are on standby 24/7. Public awareness campaigns are being run on social media and local channels to keep citizens informed.
The CDA has launched an emergency helpline — 1334 — along with a central control room to handle public complaints. Whether it’s water accumulation outside your home, a blocked drain, or a sewer overflow, citizens are urged to call and report it immediately.
“We’re here to respond fast, but we need the public’s help too,” Randhawa said.
Beyond the monsoon season, the CDA is working on long-term fixes — including upgrading the city’s drainage systems and setting up rainwater harvesting projects so that the rainwater can be stored and reused, not wasted.
Citizens are also being urged not to throw garbage into drains, as it can lead to dangerous blockages. “A little cooperation from the public can go a long way in keeping Islamabad clean and safe,” officials said.
With more rain in the forecast, the CDA is calling on all residents to stay alert, report issues, and do their part to help keep the capital flood-free.
Meanwhile, Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) on Tuesday urged citizens to adopt safe driving practices amid ongoing heavy monsoon rains, issuing a citywide advisory supported by real-time assistance, rapid response units, and continuous road monitoring.
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Captain (R) Syed Zeeshan Haider told APP that traffic officers had been actively deployed across the city to facilitate citizens and maintain traffic flow during the downpour. He said the officers were working diligently to ensure uninterrupted vehicular movement despite challenging weather conditions.
He advised motorists to reduce their speed, increase braking distance, and maintain a safe gap between vehicles to prevent accidents. “Avoid unnecessary travel in areas where water has accumulated on roads,” he added.
He urged drivers to keep headlights on, ensure wipers are functional, and keep the front windshield clean to maintain visibility during rain and fog. “Caution, patience, and safety are the keys to safe driving in such conditions,” the CTO Zeeshan emphasized.
Motorcyclists, he said, should wear helmets and raincoats during the rain for their safety. He further requested citizens to avoid parking on roadsides and instead use designated parking areas to prevent disruptions.
“In case of emergencies or vehicle breakdowns, citizens may call the ITP Helpline at 1915 for assistance,” he said, adding that ITP’s “Mechanic & Wakeel” teams were stationed on major roads to provide immediate roadside support.
