Karachi Rains Wreak Havoc After Failure of Civic Authorities

The civic authorities have failed miserably in their response to the havoc created by monsoon rains. Despite the MET office giving notice a week prior by reiterating the upcoming monsoon, the provincial government repeatedly disappoints with their callousness in being prepared and vigilant to counter the shortcomings. The neglect and incompetence becomes evident as there has been little to unsatisfactory action taken on the drainage of rainwater on major roads such as Shahrah-e-Faisal, University road, Dalmia and many more leaving commuters stuck or stranded for hours on end under several metres of water.

Over the past decade, the blatant ignorance, corruption and maladministration of Sindh government, Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) have left the people of its city suffering to fend for themselves. In an already volatile economy coupled with the pitfalls following the coronavirus pandemic, the common man has to further endure the struggle of floodings devastating their homes and workplaces leaving many without access to electricity and clean water. Power outages persisted for over fifteen hours and cars in its entirety submerged under water left many in despair. Sewerage water climbed up flowing through the streets and into shops, destroying inventory for small business owners. Not to mention, the crippling long-term health implications as a result of contamination from filthy sewage water is yet another strife the common people will have to face while already battling an inability to access clean water itself.

In some areas, heavy rainfalls ravaged through precarious infrastructure, leaving faulty electric lines exposed and endangering lives. As a result, death by electrocution claimed at least 9 innocent lives and 3 others, including a child, perished by drowning. Who, then, is responsible for these innocent lives?

The blood lies in the hands of corrupt leaders who embezzle funds and taxpayer money instead of carrying out the essential work needed for the city to function. As the city and its citizens choke under the debilitating consequences of incessant rains, political parties Pakistan People's Party (PPP,) Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) squabble in a blame-game battle over the turmoil caused.

The people of Karachi are in dire need of action. Ignored and robbed of their basic necessities by corrupt political elites for over twelve years, Karachi now demands a permanent course of action which should facilitate both a current short-term and another long-term plan for the future to effectively be able to mitigate the impacts of another season of monsoon rain.