In a shocking development, the newly constructed Serena Underpass in Islamabad has collapsed following the season’s first monsoon rains, raising widespread concerns about construction quality, transparency, and accountability in public infrastructure projects. The underpass, part of a high-profile development initiative, was built at a cost of Rs. 4.2 billion and completed in just 84 days.
Public Outrage and Viral Footage
The incident has sparked public outrage, particularly on social media, where citizens are demanding answers for what is being described as a catastrophic failure. Videos and images of the damaged underpass have gone viral, fueling anger over how a multi-billion-rupee project could deteriorate so rapidly.
Many believe that the push to complete the project quickly may have come at the expense of quality and safety standards, with critics highlighting poor planning and inadequate construction oversight.
Repair Work and Government Response
Government officials have confirmed that repair work is now underway. However, the collapse has prompted deeper concerns about the durability and structural integrity of other fast-tracked infrastructure projects across Pakistan.
The Serena Underpass was intended to ease traffic congestion in the capital and serve as a key urban development milestone. Instead, it has now become a symbol of rushed planning and questionable execution.
Experts Call for Accountability and Reforms
Urban development experts emphasize that Pakistan’s infrastructure must be resilient to seasonal monsoon rains, which are a predictable annual occurrence. The collapse has brought attention to the need for:
- Stringent quality control
- Transparent tendering processes
- Independent audits
- Long-term structural assessments
The Road Ahead
Citizens are now calling for an independent investigation to determine the causes of the collapse and to hold those responsible accountable for negligence. There is a growing demand for reforms in public infrastructure development, ensuring projects are not only completed efficiently but also meet safety and quality benchmarks.
Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.
