Massive traffic jam on Korangi Road

Causeway closed due to Malir River deluge, traffic diverted to alternative routes

KARACHI:

A severe traffic jam occurred around Qayyumabad Intersection, Jam Sadiq Bridge, and Korangi Road due to the closure of the Korangi Causeway, which the overflowing Malir River submerged. The closure left citizens stranded for hours, leading to many running out of fuel and taking hours to cover distances that usually take minutes. Numerous people couldn't reach their workplaces in time.

After heavy rains over the last few days, hill torrents coming from Balochistan caused flooding in natural waterways in the Gadap area, which resulted in the need to break a dam to divert the water through the Malir River towards Korangi Causeway.

As a precautionary measure, the authorities closed both the Korangi Crossing and Causeway routes to avoid any untoward incidents. Police blocked access to Korangi and Korangi Industrial Area, leaving citizens only able to travel from Jam Sadiq Bridge.

The closure caused significant congestion on Wednesday morning, with Jam Sadiq Bridge, Qayyumabad, Baloch Colony Expressway, Korangi Industrial Area, and Korangi Road facing the worst traffic jams. Some citizens even had to push their vehicles to the roadside due to fuel depletion and long travel times.

The Express Tribune interviewed citizens who expressed their frustration about being unable to reach their offices, factories, and shops on time, as the route from Korangi was cut off.

During the incident, two residents of Mehmoodabad attempted to cross the Korangi Causeway but were swept away by the water. Fortunately, they managed to get stuck in bushes and rescue themselves. Another youth also got stuck while attempting to cross the river but was rescued after an hour of struggle.

The traffic police said both roads remain closed until the administration issues further orders.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 27^th, 2023.