Karachi, In response to the forecast of heavy rainfall, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has declared Friday as a half working day for all government and private offices throughout the province. The decision aims to mitigate the impact of the expected downpour and facilitate emergency preparedness measures across Karachi and other areas.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the declaration came during a comprehensive rain emergency meeting at the CM House, attended by key provincial officials, including Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhre Alam, Secretary to CM Raheem Shaikh, and representatives from local bodies, hospitals, the water board, Karachi Electric (KE), and military corps. Divisional commissioners and the Mayor of Karachi participated via video link, underscoring the coordinated effort to address potential challenges posed by the rain.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted rain and thunderstorms from the night of February 29, 2024, extending into the morning of March 2, 2024. Karachi is expected to experience significant rainfall starting Friday afternoon, with projections of 16 to 32 mm within a 12-hour period on March 1, raising concerns about urban flooding and traffic congestion.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of being prepared for the rainfall, particularly highlighting traffic issues experienced on Shahrah-e-Faisal during previous rain events and the ongoing construction of the BRT Red Line on university road. Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab identified 28 critical points prone to water accumulation and assured that measures are in place for swift water removal.
Directives were issued to town chairmen to ensure the readiness of stormwater and sewerage systems, with the police instructed to assist in emergency situations. The Chief Minister also stressed the need for uninterrupted power supply to essential services, specifically mentioning the pumping stations of the water board and urging K Electric to maintain electricity during the rains.
Concerns were raised about potential flooding from hill torrents affecting Northern Sindh and the ongoing Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, prompting specific instructions to ensure the safety of pilgrims and maintain essential services in the affected areas.
This proactive approach by the Sindh government reflects a commitment to safeguarding citizens and minimizing the impact of the rains, with an emphasis on preparation and collaboration among various departments and agencies.