Karachi Faces Flooding as Thado Dam Overflows After Heavy Monsoon Rains
KARACHI: Torrential monsoon rains late Tuesday night caused the Thado Dam in Gadap Town to overflow, sending floodwaters into surrounding areas and creating severe disruptions along the M-9 Motorway (Superhighway).
Motorway Temporarily Shut Down
According to officials, rising waters submerged portions of the motorway near the Motorway Police office. Both tracks were closed as a precaution and reopened later after partial drainage restored limited traffic flow.
Localities Worst Affected
Several residential areas were hit hard, including Saadi Town, Khameeso Jokhio Goth (Malir), Khameeso Goth (New Karachi), Sohrab Goth, Machar Colony, and Hasan Nauman Colony.
Residents reported floodwater entering their homes overnight, causing panic. Many families evacuated to relatives’ homes for safety, while others stayed behind to safeguard belongings.
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescue teams from Rescue 1122, Pakistan Army, Rangers, and Navy worked throughout Wednesday to evacuate stranded families.
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More than 350 people were rescued.
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Welfare organizations including Edhi and Chhipa deployed boats to transport over 200 residents.
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Relief workers distributed food and clean drinking water to displaced families.
Government Response
A Sindh government spokesperson confirmed that the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is coordinating with rescue agencies and security forces to manage the crisis.
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah directed officials to monitor the dam’s spillways closely and ensure timely alerts to protect lives and property.
A Growing Challenge
The incident highlights Karachi’s vulnerability to urban flooding during the monsoon season. Authorities have urged residents of low-lying areas to remain cautious and follow official advisories.
