The recent tragedy near NIPA Chowrangi in Karachi is not an accident; it is a painful symbol of the collapse of basic civic responsibility. The fall of three-year-old Ibrahim into an uncovered manhole outside a departmental store while his mother cried helplessly and his father desperately searched for his only child for hours represents not just the suffering of one family, but the collective failure of the provincial government and local municipal authorities.
Reports indicate that dozens of similar incidents have occurred across Karachi over the years, many involving children and elderly citizens. Each time, public shock leads to temporary outrage, official inquiries are announced, promises are made, but nothing truly changes. Files gather dust, accountability disappears, and the next tragedy becomes only a matter of time.
The real question remains unanswered: whose responsibility was it to ensure the manhole was safely covered? When citizens themselves had to arrange heavy machinery during the search because of delayed official response, the state’s absence became as visible as the uncovered drain itself. The tragedy reflects deeply flawed priorities. While authorities speak of mega development projects, modern surveillance systems and digital governance, Karachi’s most basic infrastructure remains neglected. Sewer lines and drainage systems meant to serve the public now threaten their lives.
The NIPA tragedy must serve as a wake-up call. Press conferences and condolence statements cannot replace practical action. What Karachi urgently needs is citywide inspection of sewer lines, immediate sealing of open manholes, legal accountability for negligence and an emergency response system that actually responds on time. If these steps are not taken, history will not just blame administrators, it will blame us all for allowing preventable deaths to continue.
Until human life becomes the highest priority of governance, Karachi’s streets will continue to hide dangers and more innocent lives will be lost in silence.
Anumta Naz
Karachi
