Rawalpindi Rains Turn Deadly Family Car Washed Away

A tragic incident occurred in Rawalpindi today as heavy monsoon rains triggered flash floods, sweeping away a car carrying a retired army officer and his daughter. The victims, identified as Colonel (retd) Ishaq Qazi and his 25-year-old daughter, were travelling in their vehicle near the Soan Bridge area when a sudden surge of floodwater overwhelmed them. According to eyewitness accounts and official sources, the car was attempting to cross a flooded nullah when it became trapped and was dragged into the strong currents before anyone could intervene.

Rescue 1122 teams, assisted by army personnel and civil defense units, immediately launched a search operation. Helicopters, divers, and rescue boats have been deployed to scour the Soan River and adjacent storm drains. Despite continuous efforts since early morning, neither the vehicle nor the bodies of the victims had been recovered by the time this report was filed. Officials on the ground confirmed that the water level in the river had risen rapidly overnight, leaving little warning for those on the road.

This incident occurred in the wake of record-breaking rainfall in Rawalpindi and Islamabad over the last 24 hours. The city experienced over 220 millimetres of rain in just one night, causing widespread urban flooding, road blockages, and power outages. Nullah Lai and other water channels in the twin cities overflowed, inundating nearby residential and commercial areas. Authorities declared a rain emergency and announced the closure of schools and offices as a precautionary measure.

Punjab has been particularly affected by the ongoing monsoon spell. According to official figures released by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), at least 178 people have lost their lives in various rain-related incidents across the province since July began. These include cases of electrocution, house collapses, drowning, and landslides. Just in the last 24 hours, 63 deaths were reported due to flash flooding and storm damage, prompting the Prime Minister to call an emergency meeting for immediate relief and rehabilitation measures.

Rescue and disaster management teams across Rawalpindi have been put on high alert. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and keep away from low-lying areas, canals, and bridges. Section 144 has been imposed in several parts of the city, banning swimming and other activities in waterlogged locations. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has deployed heavy machinery to clear drainage lines blocked by garbage and construction debris, which exacerbated the flooding.

Residents in areas like Gorakhpur, Soan Garden, and the Airport Housing Society reported that water levels rose suddenly overnight, damaging homes and vehicles. In some cases, families had to evacuate their houses using makeshift rafts. Civic volunteers and youth groups have joined rescue efforts, providing food, water, and first aid to affected families.

Despite the government’s ongoing efforts, urban flooding remains a recurring crisis during monsoon season. Experts say unchecked construction near storm drains, illegal encroachments, and poor infrastructure maintenance are among the primary causes. Although authorities issue warnings every year, incidents like today’s tragedy highlight the urgent need for structural reforms and stronger enforcement of building regulations in flood-prone zones.

The disappearance of Colonel Qazi and his daughter has sent shockwaves through the community. Neighbors and friends described him as a disciplined and kind-hearted man who had served the country with honor. His daughter was said to be a bright, well-educated young woman. The family is currently receiving psychological support as the rescue operation continues.

With more rain forecasted in the coming days, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. The authorities continue to monitor the situation and assure the public that every effort is being made to recover the missing and provide relief to those affected. This tragic loss serves as a painful reminder of the devastating power of nature and the urgent need for preparedness in the face of climate-related disasters

 For updates, visit nationbytes.pk