ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has initiated a series of pre-monsoon measures to prevent urban flooding in Islamabad, following the severe flood damage the city experienced last year.
A high-level meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa brought together board members, senior engineers, environmental officials, and representatives of the Islamabad administration to formalize an emergency preparedness strategy ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
Among the primary decisions taken was the removal of illegal encroachments along nullahs and streams, which have long obstructed the natural flow of water across the capital. Authorities also resolved to map all areas that experienced rainwater accumulation during last year’s flooding, particularly around Saidpur, the Sohan River, and Nullah Korang.
The Capital Emergency Service has been designated as the lead department during the monsoon period. In preparation, the department has already conducted water rescue training for its personnel in collaboration with Chinese experts and the Pakistan Navy. Staff have additionally been trained to respond to flash flooding scenarios. Specialised water rescue teams, each comprising 12 members, have been formed to handle emergencies.
Further measures include the establishment of a dedicated flood control room to facilitate inter-departmental coordination, the identification of low-lying and flood-prone areas across the city, and the deployment of an effective early warning system. Authorities have also been directed to ensure the availability of water pumps and dewatering equipment ahead of both the pre-monsoon and monsoon periods.
CDA Chairman Randhawa emphasised that thorough planning before the arrival of the monsoon season is essential and that pre-emptive measures must be guided by last year’s experience.
Islamabad has been increasingly affected by climate change in recent years, with urban flooding and extreme weather events posing growing challenges to the city’s infrastructure and residents.
For more news on the economy, real estate, and development, visit Chakor Ventures.
