KARACHI, September 11: The death toll from rain-related incidents in Karachi climbed to eight on Wednesday after heavy monsoon showers triggered the overflow of the Malir and Lyari rivers, prompting large-scale evacuations and the closure of schools across the city.
Authorities confirmed that more than 300 residents, including families in Saadi Town, were moved to safety as floodwaters inundated low-lying areas. Rescue teams retrieved the bodies of three men and one woman after a van was swept away by the rain-swollen Konkar Nadi in Gadap Town. Another victim, an 18-year-old boy, died of electrocution in North Nazimabad, while two people remain missing in the Malir River.
Rescue officials said the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and Rescue 1122 teams were leading efforts to save stranded residents. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab confirmed that 318 people were relocated from flood-hit neighborhoods while dewatering operations continued in Saadi Town.
CM Dismisses Rumors of Expressway Collapse
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah rejected claims that the Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway had collapsed, clarifying that only an under-construction bund was affected by the heavy rains. “There is no breach in the operational sections,” he said during a visit to flood-affected areas alongside local government officials.
Rainfall, Rescue, and Relief
The Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded the highest rainfall of 32.6 mm in DHA Phase 7, followed by 20 mm at PAF Masroor Base and significant downpours across multiple localities. Authorities warned of another possible spell within the next 24-48 hours.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Army, and Rangers to intensify relief and search operations, stressing that missing persons be located and flood-hit families prioritized for assistance.
With weather forecasts predicting further showers, the Sindh government announced the closure of all schools in the Karachi Division on Thursday.