Karachi Flooded After Torrential Rains; Rivers Overflow, Schools Shut, Hundreds Rescued

KARACHI: Karachi is facing a severe flooding crisis after intermittent heavy rainfall over the past two days triggered the overflow of the Malir and Lyari rivers, submerged low-lying areas, and forced hundreds of evacuations across the city.

Dams around Karachi, including Thado Dam, have also breached capacity, inundating residential zones like Saadi Town in Scheme 33. Major highways—including the M-9 Motorway, Sohrab Goth, and Machar Colony—are under water, disrupting transport and forcing closures.

Massive Rescue Operation Underway

Rescue operations involving the Pakistan Army, Rangers, Rescue 1122, and the district administration are ongoing. Officials confirm that more than 200 residents have been rescued, including 11 people—among them women and children—from floodwaters in Saadi Town alone.

“I have never seen so much water in Lyari River in my life,” Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab told reporters during a visit to affected areas. “The water pressure in both Lyari and Malir rivers is unprecedented. The situation is dangerous.”

Wahab said he had requested military assistance through the Chief Secretary, leading to the deployment of Pakistan Army personnel to assist with evacuations and relief.

Roads Closed, Schools Shut Across Karachi

The government has ordered the closure of all schools in Karachi for today due to safety concerns. The Private Schools Association had already advised institutions to remain shut late Monday night in anticipation of worsening conditions.

The M-9 Motorway was closed to protect lives, with officials urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel.

Sindh CM: Dam Monitoring and Public Safety Priority

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has directed authorities to closely monitor water levels at key dams, especially Thado Dam, where spillover floodwaters swept away a vehicle carrying four people. All occupants were rescued successfully.

Shah emphasized the importance of keeping the public informed about rising water levels to mitigate further loss of life or property.

Read more: Flash Floods and Cloudbursts Highlight Pakistan’s Climate Threat

Weather Forecast: More Rain Expected

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the rain system affecting Sindh continues with depression-level intensity. More heavy showers are forecast today, with the weather system expected to move toward Balochistan’s coastal belt by September 11.

Officials have warned that additional rainfall could worsen the current situation and have advised citizens in flood-prone areas to remain alert and cooperate with rescue and evacuation efforts.