Building collapse and outages highlight storm impact
Karachi: Heavy rainfall swept across Karachi on Thursday, leaving one person dead and prompting authorities to declare a rain emergency. According to rescue officials, a three-storey building in Pak Colony partially collapsed after prolonged downpours weakened its structure. The incident trapped a passerby under debris, and despite rescue efforts, doctors pronounced him dead at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital.
Moreover, rain intensified across multiple areas after 2pm, with reports of hail in Mauripur. A spokesperson for K-Electric warned that power supply could be temporarily suspended in affected areas as a safety measure. Residents were advised to avoid contact with exposed wires and electrical installations.
Meanwhile, rainfall disrupted daily life, as water accumulation affected infrastructure and heightened safety risks across the city.
Traffic disruptions and emergency response intensify
The storm also caused widespread traffic disruptions, with key arteries such as Shahrah-e-Faisal experiencing closures, diversions, and severe congestion. Authorities reported waterlogged roads in several locations, forcing motorists to rely on alternative routes while traffic police managed flow on-site.
Furthermore, the Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded varying rainfall levels across the city, with heavier downpours in northern districts. Officials forecast continued intermittent rain and thunderstorms over the coming days.
In response, Mayor Murtaza Wahab and Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi activated emergency measures, deploying teams to drainage ููุงุท and establishing relief camps. Provincial authorities also instructed departments to remain on high alert and assist citizens.
As a result, officials urged residents to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and report emergencies promptly while relief operations continue across Karachi.
