Communication collapses in Karachi

Karachiites found themselves drowning in another quagmire after communication systems across the metropolis went down in the aftermath of a disastrous downpour.

Heavy rainfall on Thursday severely affected internet and cellular phone networks and as a result, cellular and internet services remained suspended in various parts of the city for at least 24 hours. The disruption was primarily attributed to the stoppage of electricity supply to cellular phone services' towers as well as infrastructural damage.

"It is an unusual situation and we are facing difficulties in providing uninterrupted services," said a spokesperson of a cellular service provider, Ufone. The infrastructure of cellular phone services providers had been severely damaged, he told The Express Tribune, adding that their teams were working to restore the service.

Besides, communication was further hampered by the disruption of landline telephone services.

Consequently, a day after the rainfall, communications in the city nearly came to a halt.

Those providing essential services were not able to connect with relevant field staff, and nor were citizens able to reach out to their families and friends. Consequently, many were left worried, unable to inquire about the wellbeing of their loved ones as the disaster inflicted by the deadly downpour continued to unfold the next day.