The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) on Monday carried out the demolition of five unsafe structures situated along the bank of a nullah in Dhamial Kalyal.
RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza stated that the operation was initiated as part of a targeted drive against illegal encroachments that block drainage channels, a key factor contributing to recent urban flooding.
According to Murtaza, the enforcement squad was instructed to take immediate action against all unauthorised constructions that impede the natural flow of water. “These buildings posed a serious hazard to residents and public safety. We ensured evacuation before proceeding with the demolition,” she said.
She stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains the authority’s primary responsibility. “Encroachments in natural waterways are one of the major contributors to flooding, and no leniency will be shown in such cases,” she added.
The RDA has deployed heavy machinery to clear blocked nullahs, with enforcement teams actively identifying illegal structures in high-risk areas, both residential and commercial.
Citizens have been urged to avoid building on or near drainage channels. Murtaza warned that strict legal measures will be taken against anyone violating building and environmental laws.
This action is part of a broader initiative to strengthen Rawalpindi’s flood management and urban planning standards. The crackdown follows instructions from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who has directed a zero-tolerance approach to all encroachments, unauthorised construction, and illegal advertising in the city.
Good Joke. What Jokers we had in the name of CSS officers.
DHA Rwp is fully build on Nullah. But these jokers never demolish that.
It is time complete survey should be initiated to identify and demolish buildings/ construction on nullah that cause flooding.