Heavy rain hits Karachi, flooding roads and disrupting daily life. Commuters struggled with waterlogged streets, traffic jams, and hours-long power outages.
According to the Meteorological Department, the downpour is part of a larger monsoon system sweeping across Pakistan. While it brought relief from the heat, the rain also highlighted Karachi’s drainage and infrastructure challenges.
Heavy rain hits Karachi and paralyzes traffic
Saddar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, North Nazimabad, and Clifton saw severe waterlogging. Shahrah-e-Faisal and University Road were submerged, causing traffic to crawl for hours. Motorcyclists and pedestrians faced particular difficulties as drainage systems failed to keep up.
Officials reported that over 150 feeders of the power network tripped due to heavy rainfall. Many areas remained without electricity for extended periods, leaving residents frustrated.
Monsoon impact across Pakistan
The weather situation stretched beyond Karachi. In Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy rainfall caused flash floods and infrastructure damage. In Murree, a landslide closed part of the Murree Expressway, leaving commuters stranded until rescue teams were able to clear debris. Authorities continue to advise caution for travelers in hilly areas.
Authorities issue safety warnings
Sindh’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has urged residents to remain alert, particularly those living in low-lying areas. Helplines have been activated for complaints related to flooding and power failures.
Experts note that urban flooding is a recurring issue in Karachi. Rapid urbanization, limited planning, and clogged drainage lines make the city highly vulnerable to seasonal rains. With forecasts predicting more downpours, authorities stress the need for preparedness.
Concerns over urban resilience
The latest spell of rain underscores the urgent need for better infrastructure and city planning. While the showers are part of the natural monsoon cycle, the damage caused each year raises concerns about Karachi’s long-term resilience.
Some residents welcome the cooling weather, while others see it as a reminder of the city’s fragile systems. Civic agencies are now under pressure to act quickly before further rainfall makes the situation worse.
Looking ahead
As heavy rain hits Karachi and monsoon showers continue nationwide, emergency teams remain on alert. Authorities are working to minimize damage and ensure that daily life in the city returns to normal as quickly as possible.
