KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced that the city of Karachi may require excavation once more if a comprehensive 100-meter rainwater drainage system is to be established, following the urban flooding caused by heavy rainfall on Tuesday.
During an emergency visit to assess the situation amid ongoing rains, CM Shah emphasized the importance of developing a modern drainage infrastructure to prevent future deluges and enhance the city’s resilience against such calamities.
He convened an urgent meeting with senior officials, including provincial ministers, city administrators, and law enforcement heads, to review the dewatering operations and reinforce vigilance since more rain is expected.Shah highlighted that Karachi is still in recovery mode after the severe flooding, which submerged many parts of the city earlier this week. The meeting involved key figures such as Minister Sharjeel Memon, Saeed Ghani, Makhdoom Mahboob Zaman, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and officials from the Sindh government.
Briefings conveyed the extent of the flooding, with numerous roads turned into large pools, impeding movement. As rain subsided, citywide dewatering efforts were launched to alleviate waterlogging in affected zones.“The foremost goal is to protect the lives of our citizens and restore normalcy in the shortest possible time,” Shah stated. He also praised rescue teams for evacuating 40 students stranded at FAST University in Malir during the downpour.
Authorities reported significant progress in draining water from critical areas, including Gulbai, Mauripur, Central Karachi, Gulshan, Ayesha Manzil, Shahrah-e-Pakistan, and Gulberg. Key government institutions such as the High Court, Sindh Secretariat, and the Supreme Court have also been cleared of water. Work is ongoing at the Arts Council premises.
Despite challenging conditions, Karachi Police, including Traffic Police, managed to keep traffic flowing smoothly across major intersections such as Capri Cinema, Shahrah-e-Liaquat, MA Jinnah Road, and Bahadurabad.The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has mobilized 26 dewatering pumps across flood-prone districts, specifically targeting underpasses and vulnerable zones in Districts South, Central, West, and East.
Shah assured residents that all relevant departments are working in close coordination to handle the current situation and prepare for anticipated rainfall. Citizens are advised to remain cautious and heed official guidance as the weather situation develops.
It is noteworthy that the recent heavy rains caused widespread urban flooding, disrupting daily life and paralyzing routine activities in many parts of Karachi. Reports indicate that at least 15 lives have been lost due to rain-related incidents in the city.
