The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that Karachi could face the first spell of downpours of the 2025 monsoon season this coming weekend.
The expected monsoon rains offer some much-needed respite for Karchites, who had to endure high temperatures and intense humidity. However, the pleasant weather comes with an unbearable cost.
As has become the norm in recent years, the incoming monsoon storms, and sometimes even moderate rains, could lead to excessive urban flooding, causing great loss to infrastructure, disease outbreaks, and road blockages.
A city notorious for its underdeveloped infrastructure, haphazard emergency services, and poor drainage systems, Karachi may not be ready for the monsoon rains.
Karachi’s Infrastructure Can’t Withstand Torrential Downpours
Karachi’s infrastructure, especially its roads and electricity systems, is built for warm, desert-like climates. This explains why even moderate rains frequently lead to waterlogging.
The metropolis lacks sloping roads, which allows water to stand and collect instead of running downhill into the drainage systems. Furthermore, substandard garbage disposal facilities mean that drainage channels (nalas) are quickly blocked.
Power outages are also common during monsoon spells, exacerbated by falling electricity poles and extensive damage to transformers.
The buildings are not safe either. The tall buildings have stood for decades, withstanding the harshest storms. Such buildings have become weaker over time and are prone to extensive damage and potential collapse during torrential downpours.
The result of waterlogged areas leads to traffic throughout the city, bringing Karachi to a standstill. Rainwater flooding homes is also a common sight in many towns.
Safety Protocols for the Public
Whilst predicting downpours over the weekend, PMD has also issued several safety protocols for the people of Karachi to minimise the possible damage from the monsoon rains.
Residents have been advised to stay home, with extra emphasis laid on keeping the vulnerable populations indoors. If outside, they must stay away from trees and weak buildings.
Loose electrical wires are a major health hazard. In addition to avoiding them, citizens are also encouraged to report such damages to the relevant authorities.
Emergency response plans have been set in motion. Rescue teams and sanitation departments have been instructed to prepare for emergencies.
Karachites hear similar warnings and stories every year, but there are minimal notable changes. Hopefully, the authorities are better prepared this year and can implement their emergency response plans to their maximum.
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