Heavy rainfall in the federal capital led to severe waterlogging in the upscale Diplomatic Enclave after a critical rainy nullah (stormwater drain) overflowed, inundating roads and compounds of several foreign missions. The worst-hit areas included the French Residence, Dutch Embassy, Malaysian and Italian embassies, as well as the Canadian Club. The flooding caused significant disruption, particularly on the eve of France’s National Day celebrations, forcing visitors to take lengthy detours to avoid submerged roads.
The root of the problem traces back to ongoing construction work at Serena Chowk, where overhead and underpasses have been built. Sources reveal that the construction firm mistakenly identified the rainy nullah—a natural waterway originating from the Margalla Hills and passing through the Diplomatic Enclave—as a mere ditch and filled it in. This critical error obstructed the natural flow of rainwater, leading to severe flooding as the downpour intensified.
With no outlet for the water, the nullah overflowed, submerging surrounding areas and leaving several embassies waterlogged. The situation has raised serious concerns among diplomatic staff, who have demanded immediate action to prevent future disruptions.
The flooding caused particular embarrassment on July 11, just before France’s Bastille Day celebrations, as guests struggled to navigate through waterlogged streets to reach the French Residence. Diplomats and visitors were forced to take long alternative routes, with some even wading through ankle-deep water.
“The situation is unacceptable,” said a diplomat from one of the affected missions. “This is a high-security zone, and such negligence in urban planning poses risks not just to convenience but also to safety.”
The Dutch, Malaysian, and Italian embassies also reported water entering their premises, damaging landscaping and causing inconvenience to staff. The Canadian Club, a popular social spot for expatriates, faced similar issues, with its parking area partially submerged.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and other relevant departments have come under fire for failing to anticipate the consequences of blocking the natural drainage system. A senior CDA official acknowledged the oversight, stating that the construction firm had not been properly briefed about the significance of the nullah.
However, diplomatic sources indicate that mere assurances are not enough. Several embassies have formally lodged complaints, urging the government to expedite corrective measures. “This isn’t just about today’s inconvenience—it’s about ensuring that such negligence doesn’t recur during the monsoon season,” said another diplomat.
This incident highlights a recurring issue in Islamabad’s urban development—where rapid construction often overlooks natural waterways. Environmental experts have long warned against encroaching on natural drainage paths, as it exacerbates flooding during heavy rains.
“The Margalla Hills feed several streams that pass through the city,” explained an environmental consultant. “When these are blocked, water has nowhere to go, leading to exactly the kind of situation we’re seeing now.”
With monsoon rains expected to continue, the affected diplomatic missions are pushing for urgent intervention. Suggestions include: Restoring the Nullah: Excavating the filled portion to re-establish the natural water flow. Improved Coordination: Ensuring construction firms consult with civic authorities before altering drainage systems. Emergency Drainage Solutions: Installing additional pumps and clearing alternative drainage routes to mitigate immediate risks.
The government has assured diplomats that corrective measures are being prioritized, but whether these promises translate into swift action remains to be seen. For now, the diplomatic community watches warily, hoping that the next downpour does not bring a repeat of this watery ordeal.
