Saidpur Nullah Encroachments Behind Islamabad Urban Flooding | Full Report 2025
Encroachments on Saidpur Nullah Spark Urban Flooding in Islamabad: Who’s Responsible?
Published: July 24, 2025 | By STTS.
Introduction: Islamabad Flooded — Again, But Why?
Another round of urban flooding in Islamabad has raised serious concerns — and this time, it’s not just about heavy rainfall. At the heart of the disaster lies unchecked encroachment on Saidpur Nullah, a natural watercourse that’s been quietly shrinking under concrete for nearly two decades.
Saidpur: From Model Village to Encroached Wetland
Once celebrated as a heritage model village, Saidpur sits at the base of the Margalla Hills, offering both cultural charm and natural beauty. But what was once a well-preserved landscape has now turned into a symbol of civic negligence.
Back in 2005, the government granted leniency to residents, allowing them to maintain their homes and preserve the area’s character. But over the years, unregulated construction crept in — slowly narrowing and eventually choking the Saidpur stormwater drain.
Google Earth Doesn’t Lie: 20 Years of Damage
Recent comparisons using Google satellite imagery reveal the truth. The area once clearly had a wide natural nullah — Islamabad’s flood exit route from the Margallas. Today, it’s barely visible under layers of illegally built structures.
This isn’t just about Saidpur. From Bhara Kahu to Bani Gala, the story is the same: nullahs turned into dumping grounds, natural waterways replaced by earth-filled plots and concrete jungles.
What Happened on Monday?
Following moderate rainfall, Saidpur flooded — three cars and multiple bikes were swept away. This wasn’t a natural disaster. It was man-made.
According to CDA officials, the main reason behind the flood was the narrowing of the original nullah. Buildings have come up right on the right of way (RoW) — the natural route stormwater is supposed to follow.
Authorities Acknowledge — But Is It Too Late?
Syeda Anam Fatima, Deputy Director General (Enforcement) at the Capital Development Authority (CDA), confirmed that encroachments exist and operations have already begun to clear them.
She emphasized the need to restore the nullah’s natural path and reforest the area to prevent future flooding. However, residents and environmentalists argue that unless strict, sustained action is taken, this will remain a seasonal headline.
The Bigger Problem: Islamabad’s Nullahs Are Dying
This issue isn’t limited to Saidpur. Korang Nullah, which flows from Murree to Rawal Dam, faces similar encroachment. From Satra Meel to Soan River, land mafia and private developers have illegally occupied natural water paths.
The result?
🔹 Overflowing roads
🔹 Choked drainage
🔹 Repeated flash floods
🔹 Billions in public damage
What Needs to Happen Now
- Enforce strict anti-encroachment laws
- Conduct digital mapping and publish it publicly
- Restore all natural nullahs to original width
- Implement green buffer zones along water bodies
- Hold officials accountable for negligence
Islamabad is not just our capital; it’s a planned city. If its waterways are not preserved, floods will become the new normal.