Monsoon rains trigger foul odour from decaying marine plants in Karachi

Phenomenon occurs annually as large quantities of aquatic plants die off post-monsoon

KARACHI:

A strong and unpleasant odour has been reported in Karachi's coastal areas following monsoon rains and tidal surges, attributed to decaying marine plants, particularly phytoplankton.

Residents in areas such as Hawksbay, Sandspit, Turtle Beach, Ibrahim Hyderi, and Keamari, have complained of the foul smell.

According to Muhammad Moazzam Khan, Technical Adviser at WWF-Pakistan, "The unpleasant odour is caused by the decomposition of phytoplankton, which proliferates underwater during the monsoon."

Khan explained that this phenomenon occurs annually as large quantities of these aquatic plants die off post-monsoon, releasing the distinct smell.

"The winds shift after the monsoon, which carries the odour to various parts of the city, gradually diminishing over time," he added.

Experts note that phytoplankton plays a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's oxygen supply, producing two-thirds of the planet's oxygen.

These microscopic plants form a vital part of the global food chain and are essential to marine ecosystems.