The search for an eleven-year-old boy is underway in Karachi after his swimming adventure turned out to be a tragedy on Friday. The little boy was swept away by the powerful currents of the trunk line that opened up in the water. This happened at the Northern Bypass area, where children usually hang around to cool off in the heat. Efforts were made by those present there along with the authorities, but the boy is still missing.
The dangers of swimming in unauthorized urban channels
There were reports that a number of children came into contact with the water line without realizing the potential danger that lies beneath the surface. Although the surface looks like normal water, the pressure and suction created inside the pipe system make it extremely hazardous, even for the best swimmers. Many locals have expressed their grievances over the absence of any kind of fence or barriers surrounding these dangerous water systems. This recent incident underscores the ongoing threat faced by many children when they find themselves cooling off at these water facilities.
The rescue team is facing a difficult situation in this recovery mission
The rescue divers and the police were promptly on site following this report; however, the complexity of the water line makes it exceedingly hard to conduct this rescue effort. Employees of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation are also assisting by observing the points of flow in the water line further along. Nevertheless, because of the distance that is covered and the fast pace of the water, the difficulty level is extremely high for this search mission. The authorities are now asking the parents to ensure that their children do not come near this dangerous place as more lives may be lost.
