The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Sindh has issued an alert, forecasting that Karachi will experience rainfall significantly above normal during the upcoming monsoon season, with an expected over 100% increase in precipitation between July and August.
This concerning prediction was discussed in a meeting chaired by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi.
Residents are concerned that the heavy rains could cause substantial damage, particularly if effective measures are not taken to clear the city’s drains. Currently, Karachi’s drainage system is strained, with 550 waste drains reportedly blocked, posing a serious flooding risk.
Read more: Punjab on high alert due to warnings of heavy rains
The PDMA informed the meeting that this year, over 100% more rainfall is anticipated between July and August.
Commissioner Naqvi emphasized that advance instructions have been issued to all relevant institutions to prepare for the heavy rains. “If there is heavy rain, there is a possibility of major damage because there are 550 waste drains in the city that are clogged due to garbage,” he stated.
The PDMA emphasized the importance of making effective arrangements for drain cleaning and ensuring proper water drainage. Without these precautions, low-lying areas of Karachi face a high risk of severe flooding and related disasters during the monsoon season.
The PDMA’s alert serves as a vital reminder for the city’s authorities and residents to take immediate and proactive steps to mitigate the potential impacts of the monsoon rains.
On Friday, Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah chaired a meeting to assess the preparations ahead of the urban flooding risk in Karachi during the upcoming monsoon rains. Shah directed the relevant departments to ensure the availability of emergency equipment, machinery, dewatering pumps, and field personnel. He noted that due to climate change, the province has been experiencing more rain and floods than usual.
