Karachi experienced light to moderate rainfall accompanied by high winds on Saturday evening, marking the second consecutive day of rain in the current monsoon spell. Rain was reported in multiple areas across the metropolis, including Scheme 33, Gulshan-i-Maymar, and adjoining areas, while a light drizzle fell in Hassan Square. Heavy rain was reported in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, and video footage showed commuters travelling through 4K Chowrangi in Surjani Town amid heavy rainfall. Light rainfall was also reported in Saddar, multiple blocks of Clifton, and the Defence Housing Authority. Earlier today, the provincial chief secretary directed provincial and district authorities to activate the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and district control rooms immediately, while ordering the submission of 24-hour situation reports every morning throughout the monsoon season for continuous monitoring. Chairing a meeting on monsoon preparedness, the chief secretary stressed that contingency plans must include the identification of relief camp sites, availability of rescue boats, dewatering pumps, water bowsers, and emergency mechanisms for food and drinking water, as well as adequate stocks of medicines for health and livestock departments. He instructed municipal authorities to remove bottlenecks, complete the cleaning of storm-water drains, and ensure uninterrupted drainage arrangements ahead of heavy rains. The meeting was informed that, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, moderate to isolated heavy rainfall was expected until July 27 in several districts, including Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Jamshoro, and Shaheed Benazirabad. Light to moderate rainfall was also forecast for districts including Ghotki, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Sukkur, Kambar Shahdadkot, Larkana, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, and Thatta, while Karachi was likely to experience mostly cloudy weather with chances of light rain and drizzle. Yesterday, the metropolis received this season’s first spell of rain after multiple localities reported light to moderate showers. Earlier this week, on the directives of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the PDMA placed district administrations across Sindh on high alert and directed all relevant departments to take precautionary and emergency response measures as strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea continue to affect the province. The CM directed all deputy commissioners, district administrations, municipal authorities, irrigation officials, health services, rescue agencies, and local government institutions to remain fully vigilant, ensure the preparedness of emergency response teams, maintain drainage systems, and take all necessary steps to protect lives and property. The rain has brought relief to residents after a prolonged dry spell, but authorities remain on high alert to address any potential flooding or rain-related emergencies. The public has been advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and follow official directives to ensure their safety during the monsoon season.
