Intermittent heavy rains have thrown Karachi into crisis over the past two days. Overflowing Malir and Lyari rivers have submerged low-lying neighborhoods, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate.
Rescue teams, including the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and Rescue 1122, have been working around the clock to pull people to safety.
The continuous downpour also caused dams around Karachi to overflow, inundating residential areas in Scheme 33, including Saadi Town.
Major roads such as the M-9 Motorway, Sohrab Goth, and Machar Colony were flooded, paralyzing city life. In Saadi Town alone, 11 people, including women and children, were rescued after being trapped in floodwaters.
Mayor Declares Situation βDangerousβ
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab visited several affected areas and described the situation as extremely βdangerous.β He said the water levels in the Malir and Lyari rivers were the highest he had ever seen. Wahab confirmed that more than 200 residents have been rescued so far and that the army was deployed on his request.
He emphasized that shutting down the M-9 Motorway was necessary to protect lives. The mayor expressed hope that water levels would drop within hours if rain intensity reduced.
Army and Rangers on High Alert
The Pakistan Army and Rangers, working alongside district administration and Rescue 1122, remain on high alert. Officials confirmed that additional troops would be deployed if required, as relief and evacuation efforts continue in flood-hit areas of Karachi.
Schools Shut Down Across City
Authorities have announced the closure of all schools in Karachi due to the worsening situation. The Private Schools Association had already advised schools to remain closed late Monday night, citing safety concerns.
Dam Monitoring and Weather Warning
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has ordered officials to closely monitor Thado Dam, which reached dangerous levels after the rains. Four people in a vehicle were swept away by floodwaters but were safely rescued. Shah stressed the importance of keeping the public informed about rising water levels.
According to the Meteorological Department, the rain-bearing system continues to affect Sindh. More heavy rainfall is expected today, with the weather system likely to move toward Balochistanβs coastal areas by September 11.
In other news read more about Federal Govt Announces Major Electricity Bill Relief for Flood Victims