Widespread Outages Across Karachi
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, is facing widespread power outages following days of torrential monsoon rains. Large parts of the metropolis remain without electricity, leaving residents struggling to cope with sweltering heat, urban flooding, and disrupted communication.
According to K-Electric, the city’s sole power utility, electricity supply has been suspended on around 550 out of 2,100 feeders, while 1,550 feeders remain operational. Restoration efforts are underway, but the utility says heavy rainfall and fuel supply interruptions have slowed down repair work.
The blackout has not only cut off fans and air conditioning in peak humidity but also left households unable to use backup systems. For many, even Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) batteries have run out after several hours of outage.
Sarfaraz Ahmed Expresses Public Anger
Frustration among citizens has been growing on social media. Former Pakistan cricket team captain Sarfaraz Ahmed took to Instagram to highlight the crisis.
“Restore the electricity in Buffer Zone. It has been ten hours now. Even the UPS is down. Please turn the lights on!” he wrote.
His message struck a chord with many residents who face similar hardships. For many, Sarfaraz’s statement represents the collective anger of millions of Karachi’s residents forced to endure blackouts during the monsoon emergency.
Deadly Consequences of Urban Flooding
Beyond power cuts, heavy rainfall has caused urban flooding across several districts. Streets remain submerged, while water has entered many residential neighborhoods. Videos circulating online show vehicles stranded in waist-deep water, with citizens attempting to push cars to safety.
Tragically, the downpour has also led to multiple accidents. Local authorities confirmed that at least nine people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents. Most deaths occurred due to electrocution and collapsing walls in waterlogged areas.
With further rain forecasts, residents fear additional damage and loss of life if drainage and electricity restoration remain slow.
Administration Declares Public Holiday
Amid the worsening situation, local authorities have declared a citywide public holiday. The move is intended to prevent unnecessary movement in flooded areas and minimize risk to human life.
Citizens have been urged to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Emergency services, however, remain on high alert as water continues to accumulate in low-lying neighborhoods.
Karachi’s Longstanding Power Woes
Karachi, a city of over 20 million people, frequently faces electricity shortages, especially during extreme weather events. Residents often complain about aging infrastructure, poor maintenance, and overreliance on fuel imports.
Analysts note that recurring blackouts during heavy rains highlight structural issues within the city’s power grid. Despite repeated promises of reform and investment, K-Electric continues to struggle with distribution challenges.
For households, this means recurring dependence on diesel generators, UPS systems, and solar panels. However, with prolonged outages, even these alternatives are often unsustainable.
Voices of Frustration Grow Louder
While K-Electric maintains that teams are working “round the clock,” many Karachi residents remain unconvinced. Social media is flooded with complaints, ranging from ruined food supplies to disrupted work-from-home routines.
Business owners also report losses due to forced closures. Small shopkeepers in flooded areas say they cannot reopen until power is restored and streets are cleared.
Citizens like Sarfaraz Ahmed amplify public frustration by demanding urgent solutions. His statement — “UPS bhi band ho gaya, light on kar do” (The UPS is down, turn the power on) — has already become symbolic of Karachi’s broader struggle during this crisis.
Outlook
With the monsoon season expected to continue, Karachi’s residents brace for further disruptions. Experts warn that without significant investment in drainage and electricity systems, such crises will repeat every year.
For now, the city remains on alert, as emergency workers race to restore power, clear flooded roads, and ensure essential services for millions waiting in the dark.
