Monsoon Crisis in Karachi: Casualties and Flood Impact

Monsoon Crisis in Karachi: Casualties and Flood Impact

Karachi faces a devastating monsoon crisis on September 10, 2025, as torrential rains flood streets and claim lives across the city. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a red alert, warning of severe urban flooding in various parts of the city. Consequently, rescue teams battle treacherous conditions to save residents, but tragedies mount.

Casualties from the Deluge

Heavy rainfall has turned Karachi’s streets into dangerous waterways, leading to heartbreaking losses. As of now, at least three confirmed deaths have occurred in rain-related incidents.

In Lyari Naddi areas, two children drowned in the swollen Lyari River near Liaquatabad’s C-1 Area, where floodwaters overwhelmed homes in low-lying neighborhoods like Eesa Nagri and Nishtar Basti.

Additionally, in Sohrab Goth, a woman remains missing after floodwaters swept through Shahbaz Goth, with rescue teams still searching. Moreover, the Sindh government notes injuries from collapsing walls and electrocutions, though specific figures for today are still emerging.

Rainfall Statistics and Flood Severity

The PMD recorded significant rainfall across Karachi, exacerbating urban flooding. Surjani Town saw 116 mm of rain in the past 24 hours, the highest in the city, causing severe waterlogging. Korangi recorded 37.1 mm, with roads like Korangi Causeway closed due to flooding. Gulshan-e-Hadeed reported 33 mm, isolating communities as the Malir River overflows. North Karachi and Gulshan-e-Maimar logged 16.6 mm and 17.1 mm, respectively, adding to the city’s woes.

Furthermore, the PMD forecasts 50–100 mm of additional rain through September 10, with a deep depression over the Arabian Sea sustaining flood risks. The Lyari and Malir rivers, swollen by Thado Dam’s overflow, have inundated areas like Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Liaquatabad, and Sohrab Goth, submerging major roads like Shahrah-e-Faisal and M-9 Motorway near Jamali Bridge.

Rescue Efforts and Government Response

Rescue 1122, the Pakistan Army, and Rangers have evacuated hundreds, with 318 people moved to safety from Lyari Naddi areas alone. In Sohrab Goth, teams rescued 12 residents, including nine children, from Shahbaz Goth. The Sindh government declared an emergency, closing schools and urging residents to avoid flooded streets. Mayor Murtaza Wahab inspected sites like Nagan Chowrangi, confirming that four relief centers provide shelter and aid. However, Karachi’s drainage system, designed for only 40 mm of rain, struggles against the deluge. The government breached a section of the M-9 Motorway to divert floodwater, easing pressure on Sohrab Goth. Additionally, power outages, enforced by K-Electric for safety, affect flooded areas, leaving residents without electricity.

As Karachi endures relentless rain on September 10, the rising death toll and severe flooding underscore the city’s vulnerability. Rescue teams continue heroic efforts, but long-term solutions for drainage and infrastructure are critical. For now, residents should avoid flooded areas and stay updated through credible sources or the PMD website.

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