A fresh spell of monsoon rain has brought heavy downpours to parts of Karachi, causing widespread flooding and disruption to daily life. The rain, which began overnight and intensified throughout the day, has inundated several areas including Nazimabad, Orangi Town, Federal B Area, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, and Malir, with reports of vehicles stranded on flooded roads, residents wading through knee-deep water, and homes and businesses affected by the rising waters.
The Sindh government has swung into action, directing the city administration to initiate dewatering activities with all available resources, including heavy machinery and emergency services. The authorities are working to clear choked drains and remove obstacles to ensure smooth flow of water, but the scale of the flooding has overwhelmed their efforts. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that Karachi is likely to receive heavy downpours accompanied by thunderstorms, with 85% humidity in the air, for the next few days, raising concerns about further flooding and waterlogging.One or two spells of heavy showers are expected tonight and tomorrow, with a possibility of further flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and stay indoors during heavy rainfall to avoid any potential risks. The government has also issued warnings about the possibility of electrocution and structural damage to buildings due to the heavy rainfall.The monsoon rains have exposed the weaknesses of Karachi’s infrastructure, with many areas experiencing flooding due to clogged drains and poor waste management.
The city’s residents have been complaining about the lack of proper drainage systems and the government’s failure to address the issue despite repeated promises.The flooding has also disrupted traffic, with many roads closed due to waterlogging. Commuters are facing difficulties in reaching their destinations, and the traffic congestion is adding to the misery of the residents. The authorities are trying to restore normalcy, but the situation remains challenging.In addition to the immediate challenges posed by the flooding, there are also concerns about the long-term impact of the monsoon rains on Karachi’s infrastructure and residents.
The repeated flooding can cause structural damage to buildings, roads, and bridges, and can also lead to health issues due to the accumulation of stagnant water.The government needs to take a long-term approach to address the issue of flooding in Karachi, including investing in proper drainage systems, improving waste management, and implementing measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall. The residents of Karachi deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure their safety and well-being.
