The ongoing monsoon spell over Islamabad unleashed torrential rain in the Margalla Hills on Monday, triggering flash floods in the picturesque Saidpur village.
The downpour, which struck with little warning, sent powerful torrents rushing through the area near the popular Des Pardes restaurant, leaving residents and visitors scrambling for safety.
Videos are circulating on social media that show the sheer force of the floodwaters, with cars and vans being swept away by the raging current. Eyewitnesses captured scenes of chaos as the water surged through the narrow streets, inundating homes and businesses and stranding several vehicles.
Authorities have confirmed that, once the rain subsides, illegal constructions in the area will be demolished. Sanitation teams are actively working to drain the standing water, which has accumulated in low-lying areas due to encroachments along the watercourse. The operation to remove these encroachments will continue until the area is fully cleared.
The incident comes as Punjab remains on high alert due to ongoing monsoon rains, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warning of potential flooding across the province until July 25.
This latest spell of heavy rain is part of the fourth monsoon wave, which has already brought widespread rainfall to many districts.
Authorities have urged residents in low-lying and hilly areas to exercise extreme caution, as further rain is expected in the coming days.