A newly constructed underpass on Islamabad’s Srinagar Highway flooded within minutes of its first heavy rain of the season, causing significant traffic disruptions and drawing public criticism. Located at Jinnah Square, the underpass had just been opened earlier this year at a cost of over Rs4 billion. Yet within hours of rainfall, it became impassable as water pooled beneath it and clogged the drains.

Motorists faced gridlock as up to three feet of water collected in the underpass, forcing traffic police to quickly reroute vehicles along alternate roads toward Murree. A contractor was dispatched to clear the area, and repairs were made within an hour to restore flow. However, the incident raised serious questions about how drainage testing was handled before inauguration.

Officials from the Capital Development Authority defended the design, noting that they installed 54‑inch drainage pipes and assigned crews to clean the system prior to rain. They blamed the blockage on debris like branches and trash that had not been cleared in time. Yet local observers pointed out that such design oversights and maintenance lapses are recurring, especially during Islamabad’s intense monsoon season, when thunderstorms and heavy showers are expected every July.

The incident is not isolated. Islamabad’s recent infrastructure projects have frequently come under public scrutiny for construction flaws, poor design, or poor adaptation to real-world weather conditions. Past months have seen multiple projects open only to face immediate challenges in usability or safety, a pattern that many feel reflects rushed deadlines and inadequate planning.

As monsoon rains intensify over the coming weeks, residents and motorists are rightly concerned. Heavy downpours are forecast across the twin cities, with rainfall already exceeding seasonal norms. This underpass failure adds to mounting frustration over construction that looks impressive but lacks long-term resilience.

In the days ahead, authorities will need to clarify inspection protocols, retrofit drainage systems, and ensure regular maintenance. Until then, commuters may find this underpass offers more delays than relief.