Karachi, the bustling metropolis and economic hub of Pakistan, has been ranked as the second riskiest city in the world, according to a comprehensive list compiled by Forbes Advisor. This unsettling distinction comes after careful consideration of seven critical metrics, including crime, personal safety, health, infrastructure, natural disasters, and digital security. With a safety score of 93.12, Karachi trails only Caracas, Venezuela, in terms of overall risk.
The city’s precarious position is largely attributed to its alarming personal safety risk, which encompasses threats from crime, violence, terrorist activities, natural disasters, and economic vulnerabilities. This is further compounded by the US State Department’s Level 3 travel advisory, cautioning visitors to “reconsider travel” due to the high risk of harm. Moreover, Karachi’s infrastructure security risk ranks fourth globally, highlighting concerns about the availability and quality of essential services and facilities.
In stark contrast, cities like Singapore, Tokyo, and Toronto boast impeccable safety records, with Singapore earning a perfect score of 0, signifying an exemplary environment for tourists and residents alike. This disparity underscores the urgent need for Karachi’s authorities to address the myriad challenges plaguing the city, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for its inhabitants and visitors.