One day of rain brings city's streets, markets to a standstill

Just one day of rainfall has thrown the metropolis into disarray, exposing its crumbling drainage system. Streets are flooded, gutters are overflowing, and in many areas, mud and water have accumulated.

Roads that were recently repaired have broken apart again, and ongoing development projects have become a source of frustration for residents. Businesses, transport services, and daily life have been severely affected.

The situation was particularly dire on the service road of Liaquatabad No 10, where water and mud made passage almost impossible. Ambulances faced major difficulties navigating the flooded roads, putting patients' lives at risk. In fact, one ambulance broke down on the road in Liaquatabad No 10.

At bus stands in the area, commuters complained about the lack of transport. Due to rising fuel prices and inflation, fewer local buses are operating, leaving passengers stranded despite waiting for over an hour. After the rain, fares have increased further, making travel even more difficult for ordinary citizens. Offices and educational institutions have also become hard to reach, as rickshaw drivers refuse to ply through rainwater while charging double fares.

In the historic Urdu Bazaar, overflowing drains and accumulated rainwater caused chaos, halting business entirely. Access to schools and maternity hospitals in the area was also disrupted. The chairman of the Urdu Bazaar Association, Sajid Yousuf, told The Express Tribune that even a small amount of rain turns the market into mud and filth. The old sewer lines frequently choke, and government representatives rarely inspect the situation.

Students reported that they had come to buy books and stationery for the new academic year, but the heavy mud and water made it extremely difficult to move around. Many had to walk on foot, while motorcyclists relied on rickshaws, increasing their expenses.

Similar issues were reported around Bolton Market and Memon Mosque, where standing water and mud caused serious difficulties for worshippers. Around the under-construction Karimabad underpass, water remained stagnant due to poor drainage, creating a swamp-like situation and adding to residents' hardships.

Karachiites say just one day of rainfall has exposed the inefficiency of local municipal authorities. They are urging the government to improve the drainage system, ensure proper road construction, and provide immediate relief to prevent such disruptions in the future. One day of rain brings city's streets, markets to a standstill.