The bustling city of Karachi experienced a second consecutive day of heavy rainfall, causing significant disruptions in various localities.
Areas such as Gulistan-i-Jauhar, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, DHA, Clifton, II Chundrigar Road, Saddar, and Lyari reported moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by cold winds.
Water accumulation in key areas, including University Road, Ziauddin Road, Haqqani Chowk, Denso Hall, and Lighthouse also reported causing mobility issues for the residents.
Additional concerns were raised regarding Dow University, Tibet Chowk, Ankalsaria Chowk, Shershah Road, Guru Mandir, Jahangir Road, Ayesha Manzil, Five-Star Chowrangi, Hyderi, Shafiq Mor, and Qayyumabad.
The sudden return of cold weather, following heavy showers, led to flooding in major city arteries. The Meteorological Office attributed this weather pattern to a prevailing westerly wave over Balochistan and Sindh.
The Met Office forecasted ongoing rain and thunderstorms with light to moderate intensity in Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Tharparkar, and other areas of the province.
Data from the Met Office highlighted Saadi Town receiving the highest rainfall at 17 millimeters on Sunday, followed by Nazimabad (12.8mm), Orangi Town (12.5mm), University Road (8.5mm), Surjani Town (7.4mm), Gulshan-i-Hadeed (7mm), North Karachi (7mm), PAF Faisal Base (6mm), Jinnah Terminal (5.8mm), and Korangi (4.2mm).
In response to the challenging conditions, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, through social media, updated citizens on his actions, identifying and addressing drainage issues. He reported that main roads were clear, with efforts underway to address internal street concerns, particularly in Lyari.
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister retired Justice Maqbool Baqar issued directives to government officials, emphasizing the need for immediate measures.
A telephonic conversation with Mayor Murtaza Wahab resulted in instructions to enhance water drainage efforts. The chief of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board was directed to utilize water pumps and other machinery for efficient water drainage.
Traffic management received special attention, with the chief minister urging the traffic police head to implement measures for smooth traffic flow.
In a final directive, CM Baqar called upon all commissioner, deputy commissioner, and district police officers to actively participate in assisting the affected populace during this challenging weather situation.