Heavy rainfall and a rapid surge at Thaddo Dam have caused Karachi’s Malir and Lyari rivers to breach their banks, flooding nearby neighbourhoods and streets, particularly in Scheme 33.
Rescue teams, equipped with boats and ropes, are working tirelessly to save trapped families.
In Gulshan-e-Iqbal, two individuals stranded near the Lyari River were safely evacuated. Volunteers are assisting officials, prioritizing the rescue of children and the elderly.
Thaddo dam surge prompts action on M-9 motorway
The spokesperson for the Sindh Chief Minister reported that rising water levels from Thaddo Dam collided with the M-9 motorway near Jamali Bridge.
To alleviate pressure and redirect the flow, the Sindh government decided to breach the motorway’s median wall. This measure aims to split the current, safeguarding lives and property downstream.
Engineers remain on-site, guiding machinery and managing traffic on open lanes to ensure safety and mobility.
Lyari river floods strain surrounding communities
The Lyari River’s overflow has inundated homes in areas like FB Area, Shafiq Colony, Hassan Noman Colony, Sohrab Goth, and Bakra Pedi.
Several feet of standing water have forced families to seek refuge on rooftops and upper floors. Rescue teams are navigating block by block with boats, while loudspeakers warn against travelling on flooded streets at night.
Many households have moved valuables to higher shelves and disconnected main power switches to prevent electrical hazards.
Road closures and traffic diversions disrupt city movement
A fresh monsoon spell has brought Karachi to a standstill, prompting authorities to close key routes, including Korangi Causeway, Korangi Crossing, and the Gulshan-e-Hadeed link road to Hyderabad.
At Godown Chowrangi in Korangi, the road toward Mahmoodabad was shut, with traffic rerouted to Jam Sadiq Bridge and Malir Expressway via Qayyumabad. Vehicles from Korangi Crossing are being diverted through CNG Cutting and Godown Chowrangi.
Flooding in the Malir River has also forced the closure of the link between the National Highway and the Superhighway. Traffic police are guiding motorists, urging caution and slow speeds on wet roads.
Rain mixed with overflowing sewage enters these areas of Karachi
Heavy rain mixed with overflowing sewage has flooded roads and lanes across Gulistan-e-Johar Blocks 14 and 15, Federal B Area, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Liaquatabad, University Road, Landhi, Korangi, North Karachi, and North Nazimabad.
Pungent stagnant water has surrounded several mosques, blocking access for worshippers. Residents have criticised the Water Corporation and Water Board for delays in dewatering efforts, demanding jetting machines, functional pumps, and round-the-clock teams.
Doctors are warning of health risks, including stomach illnesses and skin rashes, and recommend using boiled water, washing hands with soap, and keeping food covered.
Karachi commissioner orders closure of all educational institutions on Wednesday due to flood crisis
In response to the crisis, the Commissioner of Karachi declared a public holiday for all public and private schools and colleges across the division on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
Examinations scheduled for the day will be rescheduled, with boards to announce new timetables.
The decision aligns with a Pakistan Meteorological Department advisory forecasting heavy rain, wind, and thunderstorms, prioritising the safety of students, teachers, and staff.
Authorities will continue monitoring weather forecasts and river gauges, providing updates if the intense rain persists.
Safety measures for Karachi residents
Residents near rivers and nullahs are urged to relocate to higher ground promptly. Families should prepare emergency kits with essentials like CNIC, medicines, baby food, drinking water, and power banks.
Avoid downed wires, open manholes, and fast-moving water, and refrain from driving through underpasses or deep puddles. Vehicles should be parked on elevated ground.
In emergencies, contact Rescue 1122 and follow traffic police diversion signs.
Community groups can help by mapping safe routes, marking hazards with tape, and checking on elderly neighbours.
Timely cooperation can minimise losses and hasten recovery as floodwaters recede.
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