Following a bout of moderate to heavy rainfall on Monday evening, Karachi police have been put on high alert as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts further intense rainfall for the city and other parts of lower Sindh. The PMD warns that the deep depression system approaching from Rajasthan could bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across the region, potentially causing urban flooding and other weather-related challenges.
Meteorological Warning and Forecast
Sardar Sarfaraz, the chief meteorologist at PMD, provided a detailed update on the weather system. “The system is intense, moving westward and southwestward, and there is no sign of it losing severity. We expect it to bring about 400mm to 500mm of rainfall during the four-day spell from August 27 to August 30 in several districts of lower Sindh,” Sarfaraz explained. The areas expected to be most affected include Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar, Tando Muhammad Khan, and Tando Allah Yar.
While Karachi is not expected to face the same intensity, the city could still receive significant rainfall, with predictions ranging from 150mm to 200mm between Wednesday and Friday.
Police Precautionary Measures
In response to the weather warnings, Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Karachi, Javed Alam Odho, issued directives on Tuesday for the city’s police force to take necessary precautions. A notification from the AIG’s office outlined several measures to ensure public safety and maintain order during the expected heavy rainfall.
Field commanders have been instructed to remain in their designated areas throughout the duration of the rains. The police are also tasked with providing alternative traffic routes in areas prone to water accumulation and ensuring a smooth flow of traffic during and after the rains. Additionally, patrol vehicles are to be equipped with essential tools and tubes to assist in extricating vehicles that may become stuck in flooded areas.
The notification emphasized the importance of coordination with the civic administration to assist the public effectively. Citizens are advised to stay away from electric wires, poles, trees, and signboards during the rain. In case of emergencies, the public is encouraged to contact the Madadgar 15 helpline or call 1915 for traffic information and guidance.
“Karachi Police is utilizing all available resources to ensure public safety and service,” the notification stated, underscoring the commitment to maintaining safety during the weather event.
Rain Emergency and City Preparedness
Anticipating the heavy rains, Karachi’s city administration declared a “rain emergency” for all local government institutions on Saturday. This emergency declaration follows the PMD’s forecast of a weather system developing in West Bengal, which is expected to move westwards, bringing heavy rains and the risk of urban flooding from Monday to Thursday.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab chaired a meeting of heads of relevant institutions over the weekend, urging them to remain vigilant and responsive to the expected weather conditions. The Mayor stressed the importance of readiness in light of the Met Office’s predictions and called for coordinated efforts to mitigate the potential impact of the rains on the city.
The Broader Impact of Monsoon Rains
Monsoon rains, which occur from June to September, are vital for replenishing water supplies and supporting agriculture across the region. However, they also pose significant risks, particularly in urban areas like Karachi, where heavy rainfall can lead to severe urban flooding, traffic disruptions, road damage, prolonged power outages, and other complications that bring life to a standstill.
Experts have noted that climate change is exacerbating the frequency and severity of these weather events, making preparedness and effective response increasingly critical.
As Karachi and lower Sindh brace for the impending weather system, the efforts of the police, city administration, and relevant authorities will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the monsoon rains, ensuring public safety, and minimizing disruption to daily life.
