KARACHI: A powerful spell of monsoon rain lashed Karachi on Tuesday morning, flooding major roads, submerging homes, and claiming at least 10 lives. The Sindh government has declared Wednesday (August 20) a public holiday to deal with the worsening situation.
Flooding Brings City to a Standstill
According to reports, several neighbourhoods including Gulshan-e-Hadeed, Korangi Crossing, Liaquatabad, Baldia Town, Rafah-e-Aam and Shah Faisal Colony saw rainwater enter houses. In Malir and North Karachi, water levels rose up to four feet, forcing residents to abandon vehicles and wade through the flooded streets.
Key roads such as Sharea Faisal, University Road, II Chundrigar Road, Nagan Chowrangi, Hub River Road and Miran Naka were also clogged with rainwater, bringing traffic to a halt. The heaviest rainfall was recorded in Gulshan-e-Hadeed with 170 millimetres.
Loss of Lives and Power Breakdowns
The downpour left at least 10 people dead in rain-related incidents. Two women drowned in a stormwater drain near Guru Mandir, while another woman is still missing. Four people were killed and two injured when a wall collapsed in Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 12. A child lost his life in a similar incident in Orangi.
Electrocution also proved deadly. A motorcyclist died near Nursery on Shahrah-e-Faisal, while another person was electrocuted in DHA.
Large parts of the city faced prolonged power outages, while mobile and internet services were also disrupted.
In view of the situation, the Sindh government announced a public holiday on August 20, urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Rain Forecast for Coming Days
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that Karachi is likely to receive more heavy showers and thunderstorms until August 23, increasing the risk of further urban flooding.
Wider Context
Karachi’s drainage system has long struggled to cope with intense rainfall. The flooding this week mirrors past crises, including the devastating 2022 monsoon disaster.
Across Pakistan, this year’s monsoon has already taken a heavy toll. More than 660 people have lost their lives nationwide — including 392 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 164 in Punjab, and 29 in Sindh. Landslides and flash floods have also been reported in northern regions.
Authorities Urge Caution
The Sindh administration has deployed emergency and rescue teams across the metropolis. Citizens have been advised to stay at home, keep away from flooded areas, and remain cautious of open drains and exposed electric wires.
With more rain predicted, the situation remains uncertain and officials warn that the next few days will be critical for Karachi.
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