KARACHI: At least 15 people have died during the current monsoon spell in Karachi as the city again received moderate to heavy showers for the third day on Saturday.
Monsoon rains are continuing in most districts of Sindh and Balochistan.
District Municipal Corporations (DMCs), Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMCs), the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Sindh government and the Pakistan Army are assisting relief activities throughout the port city.
Malir Nadi (river) was flooded by rainwater and traffic was stuck from Qayyumabad to Korangi Causeway. City Court, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Bhittai Colony, and low-lying areas remained flooded.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Pakistan army had started relief operations in Karachi, and rescue teams were active in affected areas with dewatering pumps and necessary safety equipment.
Rainwater is being drained out from low-lying areas and stranded people are being rescued. Further rescue teams have been alerted in the wake of possible flooding or any other emergency situation.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) spokesperson said that three nullahs were completely cleaned and work in other places was ongoing.
On the other hand, the number of people who were electrocuted in rain-related incidents surged to nine. The mishaps occurred in Ittehad Town, Gulistan-e-Johar, City Court Road, and Jam Colony.
Due to the heavy rains, several areas of Karachi experienced power shortages. Some areas of Orangi Town, Khudadad Colony, Landhi, PECHS, Old City Area and Korangi have been without power since Friday night, while Surjani Town, Khad Basti and other suburbs have been without power since the current spell started two days ago.
A spokesperson for K-Electric said due to standing water in some low-lying areas, utility staff was unable to restore power. “Restoring electricity in areas with standing water can lead to loss of life. Protection of human life is our first priority,” he added.
The power supply company said the accidents are unfortunate but the infrastructure is not responsible for the deaths. He said the reason for the deaths is illegal connections.
Hyderabad is experiencing traffic jams after rainwater accumulated on various highways and intersections on the third day of monsoon rains.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the intensity of the monsoon is still the same and the rain has spread to Balochistan. The rain is expected to continue till tonight. Another 30mm of rain is expected in Karachi. Light rain is expected in Karachi on Sunday.