Operation underway to rescue father, daughter swept away in DHA Islamabad flood

ISLAMABAD: A father and his daughter were swept away in flooding at DHA phase 5 on Tuesday morning. As per reports, a retired army officer Qazi Ishaq and his daughter, resident of Sector A DHA Phase 5, were seen in their car submerged in flooding of a drainage.

According to society officials, the incident took place at 8:15am when Colonel (retd) Ishaq was driving his daughter to the main gate from Street 22. As soon as the vehicle exited, they were reportedly warned about a cloudburst and dangerously strong water flow.

The father was on his way with his daughter when his car got trapped in the flooding and was swept away. According to eyewitnesses say the water level rose quickly, leaving the driver with no time to escape. Rescue operation is underway to recover the duo.

A person on X claiming to be relative of the father-daughter took to his socials to pray for the safety, mentioning that it has been more than three-hours since the last contact was made.

According to the housing society officials, despite the alert, the vehicle skidded shortly after leaving the house due to the intense water pressure and fell into a nullah (drain), where it got stuck.

Rescue 1122 Director General reached the site immediately. Officials said rescue teams have been deployed at all points where rainwater enters the Sawan River.

Search operations are underway at Sawan Bridge and Gorakhpur. However, rescue officials said chances of survival for the father and daughter appear bleak due to the powerful water flow.

Warnings have also been issued advising residents to avoid going out.

Read more: Multiple landslides in Murree; rescue operations underway

The recent monsoon spell has led to extensive damage across Punjab with Saidpur Village also witnessing a flash flood on Monday. NDMA on Tuesday said 221 people have been killed and more than 500 others injured in incidents linked to nearly a month of heavy monsoon rains: “Since June 26 up to July 21, 221 people have lost their lives, including 104 children and 40 women,” a spokesperson said.