CM orders round-the-clock relief as deaths rise, city reels from violent winds, downpours
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. PHOTO: Radio Pakistan
KARACHI:
In the wake of a powerful storm that lashed Karachi on Wednesday night CM Murad Ali Shah reviewed the city’s emergency response and ordered authorities to remain in the field until all relief and rehabilitation work is fully completed.
During a high-level meeting at the CM House, Commissioner Hassan Naqvi and DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad briefed the Shah on rescue operations, road clearance, and the restoration of traffic flow.
Officials reported that the storm system, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain, persisted from 7pm to midnight, with rainfall ranging between two mm and 25mm in different parts of the city. The extreme weather triggered multiple incidents, including falling of trees, collapsing signboards, and structural damage to buildings.
The human toll has been significant: 19 people lost their lives and 16 others were injured in rain-related incidents, with the highest number of fatalities — 13 — reported in Baldia, District Keamari.
On CM’s directives, district administrations, municipal bodies, and emergency services launched immediate rescue and clearance operations. Fallen trees, signboards, and other obstacles were removed from major roads, restoring traffic flow in most areas. Authorities noted that no large-scale urban flooding or prolonged traffic gridlock was reported after the rain.
Expressing grief over the loss of lives, Murad Ali Shah directed officials to maintain constant monitoring of the situation, emphasising that the protection of citizens’ lives and property remains the government’s top priority.
