Karachi Flood Emergency After 129mm Rain
Karachi experienced one of its most severe monsoon downpours this week, recording 129mm of rainfall in just 24 hours. The intense rain triggered a Karachi flood emergency, leaving more than 200 people evacuated from low-lying areas as the city struggled to cope with the deluge.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the heavy showers that began Tuesday night continued through Wednesday morning. Streams overflowed, storm drains collapsed, and several neighborhoods were completely submerged, disrupting life across Pakistan’s largest metropolitan hub.
👉 Official alerts are available on the Pakistan Meteorological Department
website.
Roads Submerged and Transport Chaos
The continuous downpour turned major roads into rivers. Vehicles stalled in waist-deep water, while commuters faced long traffic jams stretching for kilometers. Many had to abandon their cars in the middle of the roads, while others waited for hours with no relief in sight.
Public transport services also slowed down drastically. Bus routes were disrupted, ride-hailing services canceled bookings, and rickshaws disappeared from the streets. The flooded roads not only made commuting impossible but also delayed emergency services, adding to the crisis.
Schools Closed and Businesses Shuttered
In response to the worsening Karachi flood emergency, schools declared emergency holidays to protect students. Many shops, malls, and restaurants also remained shut. For small traders and daily wage earners, the rain meant not just inconvenience but significant financial losses.
The closure of businesses added to the already struggling local economy, with Karachi being Pakistan’s financial hub. The Chamber of Commerce issued an appeal to the government, highlighting how the city’s fragile infrastructure puts livelihoods at risk during every monsoon season.
Rescue Operations and Relief Efforts
City administration teams, supported by the provincial disaster management authority, launched large-scale rescue and relief operations.
- Families in low-lying neighborhoods were shifted to temporary shelters.
- Municipal staff worked overnight to drain water from main roads.
- Electricity was cut in several areas to prevent accidents caused by electrocution.
Mayor Murtaza Wahab confirmed that rapid response teams were deployed across the city. He assured citizens that relief operations would continue until conditions stabilize. However, residents expressed frustration, noting that rescue teams often arrive late and drainage systems remain clogged year after year.
Power Cuts Add to Citizens’ Misery
As rainwater entered streets and homes, K-Electric disconnected power supplies in flood-prone neighborhoods to avoid accidents. While necessary, this precaution left thousands of families without electricity for hours. Combined with 92% humidity, the outages made life unbearable.
Internet services also broke down in several areas, cutting off communication and leaving people unable to reach help when needed.
Read Also Here:
Asia Cup 2025 Teams Schedule and Prize Money
Meteorological Forecast and Warnings
The PMD has warned that the monsoon spell could continue for another 24 hours. Temperatures are likely to stay between 27°C and 29°C, with humidity levels remaining high.
The department also issued an alert regarding a low-pressure depression west of Karachi, which may push more rain clouds toward the city. If that happens, citizens could face another round of intense downpours, worsening the Karachi flood emergency.
👉 See live updates at Dawn Weather Reports..
Citizens Demand Long-Term Solutions
Despite yearly warnings, Karachi’s drainage system remains weak and underdeveloped. Each monsoon season exposes the lack of proper planning. Residents have demanded:
Regular cleaning of storm drains before monsoon starts.
Investment in modern drainage and sewerage infrastructure.
Stronger coordination between city government, NDMA, and K-Electric.
Early warning systems and public awareness campaigns.
Many believe that without permanent solutions, Karachi will continue to face devastating floods every year.
Human Side of the Karachi Flood Emergency
Beyond the statistics, the human toll has been heartbreaking. Families were trapped in submerged homes, children were carried to safety through waist-deep water, and the elderly suffered without access to medical help.
Stories of courage also emerged. Volunteers used boats and makeshift rafts to help neighbors. Community groups distributed food and water to those stranded. Social media became a lifeline, with citizens posting rescue requests and offering shelter to affected families.
Lessons From Past Floods
This is not the first time Karachi has drowned during the monsoon. In August 2020, record-breaking rainfall caused catastrophic flooding that paralyzed the city. Similar scenes played out in 2022 and 2023, proving that authorities have yet to implement long-term measures.
Experts say Karachi needs a comprehensive flood management plan, including:
- Rebuilding old drainage systems.
- Expanding water storage reservoirs.
- Introducing stricter urban planning to prevent illegal construction on drains.
- Improving early warning systems.
Final Word
The Karachi flood emergency following 129mm of rain highlights once again how fragile the city’s infrastructure is. Rescue operations continue, but the challenges are immense.
Until sustainable solutions are implemented, Karachi will remain at risk of paralysis every monsoon season. For the millions who call this city home, preparedness and accountability are not just demands — they are survival needs.
Read More Here:
