🌧️ Heavy Rain Hits Karachi, Emergency Declared After Fatal Building Collapse
KARACHI: Karachi faced heavy rainfall on Thursday, causing widespread flooding, traffic disruptions, and power outages, with at least one person killed after a building wall collapsed.
Rescue-1122 spokesperson Hassaan Ul Haseeb Khan reported that the collapse occurred near Bismillah Hotel in Pak Colony. The victim, a passerby trapped under debris, was rushed to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
🚨 Emergency Response
The Karachi Commissioner, Syed Hassan Naqvi, declared a rain emergency, activating rapid-response teams and deploying staff from the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC), the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB), and town administrations. Citizens are urged to contact the rescue helpline at 1299 for assistance.
Mayor Murtaza Wahab instructed KMC staff to remain alert, monitor eight nullahs and 12 drainage chokepoints, and deploy additional teams if needed.
🌦️ Rainfall & Weather Conditions
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), torrential rain fell across the city, with Bahria Town recording the highest rainfall at 20.5mm, followed by Surjani Town (12.6mm), University Road (8.2mm), and other areas. A hailstorm was reported from Mauripur.
PMD forecasts intermittent rain and thunderstorms with isolated heavy downpours, while temperatures are expected to stay between 24–26°C with high humidity (60–83%). Lighter rain is expected on Friday, with mostly sunny skies returning by Saturday.
🚦 Traffic & Power Disruptions
Heavy rain caused waterlogging across major arteries, including Sharea Faisal, Agha Khan Road, Jinnah Avenue, and Boat Basin, leading to significant congestion. Karachi Traffic Police provided alternative routes to ease travel for motorists.
K-Electric warned that power supply may be temporarily suspended in some areas and advised citizens to stay clear of fallen wires or damaged electricity installations.
🛠️ Government Precautions
The Sindh government, led by Sharjeel Inam Memon, has cancelled leaves of essential staff and deployed additional de-watering pumps in low-lying areas. Chokepoints are being actively monitored to ensure rapid drainage and prevent flooding.
Authorities have also established rain emergency help desks and camps across all districts, including East, South, Keamari, and Central, to assist residents in affected areas.
Citizens are urged to exercise caution, avoid waterlogged streets, and contact emergency services promptly in case of danger.
