Karachi's Battle with Climate: Torrential Rains Bring Chaos

Karachi faces chaos as unprecedented monsoon rains continue, causing deaths, flooding, power outages, and traffic jams. The Pakistan Meteorological Department warns of more showers, while officials report fatalities due to collapses and electrocution. Flight operations are disrupted, and a public holiday is declared amid Karachi's severe weather crisis.

On Tuesday, Karachi was grappling with the devastating aftermath of monsoon rains, which claimed at least six lives as reported by Dawn. Persistent downpours inundated neighborhoods, leaving residents feeling frustrated and helpless. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has cautioned that further showers are expected, escalating the city's woes.

Fatalities included five people who died in house and wall collapse incidents, and one individual who succumbed to electrocution, according to official sources cited by Dawn. The rains overwhelmed stormwater drains and sewers, causing rainwater to flood homes and exacerbating the suffering of residents. In the aftermath, widespread power outages plunged several areas into darkness, while disruptions at Jinnah International Airport saw multiple flights delayed, canceled, or rerouted due to adverse conditions. In response, Karachi declared a public holiday on Wednesday as the severe weather persisted.

The heavy downpour also submerged major roads, leading to unprecedented traffic jams as hundreds of vehicles, including cars and motorcycles, were trapped. Commuters were forced to abandon their vehicles due to fuel shortages, adding to the chaotic scene. UN News reflected on these floods as indicators of Pakistan's climatic vulnerability, reminiscent of the 2022 monsoon floods, which caused significant casualties and economic loss estimated at nearly USD 40 billion.

(With inputs from agencies.)