Record rainfall wake-up call on climate change: mayor

Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Wednesday described the recent torrential rains in Karachi as a stark reminder of the global climate crisis, urging citizens to recognize the reality of climate change and respond with practical solutions.

Addressing a press conference at Frere Hall, Wahab said cities worldwide-including New York, Dubai, and Mumbai-are facing similar challenges. He cited recent climate-related disasters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir as further evidence of the growing threat.

Karachi witnessed two intense spells of rainfall on Tuesday, with Manghopir recording 235mm and citywide totals exceeding 170mm in just 12 hours.

"Our storm-water drains are designed for only 40mm. When rainfall exceeds that multiple times, disruption is inevitable," Wahab explained.

He noted that despite the severity, drainage operations began promptly, and major roads were cleared by midday. A comparison with the 2020 floods showed marked improvement, particularly in the Nursery area.

Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad and other city officials were present.

Wahab appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains and assured that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation remains fully active in relief efforts. "We will continue serving Karachi with dedication," he concluded.