KARACHI: Authorities in Pakistan’s Sindh province have imposed an emergency in Karachi, the country’s largest city and commercial capital, after flash floods triggered by heavy rain inundated vast swathes of the metropolis, killing at least seven people in separate incidents.
The downpour on Tuesday brought life to a standstill as several thoroughfares in the city of over 20 million were deluged by floodwaters. Rainwater entered homes in low-lying areas of the city, triggering power outages.
Local authorities advised people to avoid commuting as many returning from work and schools were stranded, with vehicles strewn along roads forcing many to navigate to safety in waist-deep water.
“The Mayor Karachi hereby declared Rain Emergency within the city of Karachi,” the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), which oversees administrative affairs of the city, said in a notification.
“The municipal services, fire brigade and USAR (urban search and rescue) departments, KMC are directed to establish Rain Emergency Cell and coordinate with all Essential Services Departments.”
