KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah stated on Wednesday that encroachments along rivers and stormwater drains were a primary cause of urban flooding in the province. During his visit to various parts of Karachi to assess the post-rain situation, he emphasized that while no government had authorized housing schemes along riverbeds, blocking natural waterways had significantly contributed to the ongoing crisis.
Murad assured the public that his government, along with civic agencies and elected representatives, was working tirelessly to address the challenges posed by heavy rains and rising river levels. He praised Mayor Murtaza Wahab and Deputy Mayor Salman Murad for their active role in assisting residents, acknowledging their dedication throughout the night to provide help.
Expressing sadness over the loss of four lives in Malir during the night, the CM highlighted that rescue teams had successfully saved many people trapped near Korangi Causeway early in the morning. He urged the public to follow government advisories closely to minimize risks.
The CM also commended the efforts of provincial ministers, senior administrative officers, and disaster management teams, including Rescue 1122, for their effective response. He pointed out that other areas such as Thatta, Jamshoro, Dadu, Hyderabad, Sujawal, Badin, and Tharparkar had also experienced heavy rainfall, with relief efforts already underway.
Murad discussed the preparedness for a super flood, mentioning that the Indus River had reached a flow of 500,000 cusecs at the Guddu Barrage, although the government had been ready for a potential 900,000 cusec flood. Relief camps and medical facilities had been set up, with over 5,000 people receiving treatment at medical camps, and more than one million livestock vaccinated to protect rural livelihoods.
Reflecting on past experiences with floods, the CM emphasized that his government had learned valuable lessons from previous disasters. He stated that PPP workers, elected officials, and the administration were once again actively involved in disaster response.
Murad also highlighted the Malir Expressway project, which he claimed would act as a protective embankment, urging critics to wait for its completion before passing judgment. During his inspection of Qayyumabad and Korangi Causeway, he ordered swift action to clear the area once the Malir River’s flow subsides.
Additionally, Murad inspected Jinnah Avenue and Lyari River, noting that despite the river being under pressure, it remained under control. He reiterated the need for efficient drainage operations and continuous cleaning by municipal administrations to manage the situation effectively.
