Karachi businesses open doors as rain emergency leaves thousands stranded
Despite the disruption, the spirit of Karachiites remained undimmed. Businesses, shops and mosques opened their doors to stranded passers-by, offering them a place to sit and rest.
'If you are caught in the rain, our doors are open. Come in, take a seat, dry off, and make yourself at home. You're welcome to use our WiFi, charge your phone, or simply wait for the clouds to clear, no need to order a thing. And to warm yourself, enjoy a cup of tea for free,' the cafe announced.
The gesture was not isolated. Across Karachi, citizens took to social media offering help to those stranded. Offices, mosques, madaris and political party premises opened their doors for temporary shelter.
'My office in DHA Phase 7… if you want you can stay there,' one social media post read. Another offered space near Shahrah-e-Faisal: 'If anyone stuck at Shahrah-e-Faisal then can stay at our office in Fortune Tower.'
Local residents in other areas also stepped in. 'Any help needed near Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 7 I am available,' one post said. Another offered shelter near Clifton Block 8 and PECHS Block 6, providing charging facilities, water and food.
Khizar Khan confirmed a city-wide effort. 'We have opened all of our 103 mosques, madaris and party offices across Karachi. Night stays, phone charging facilities, toilets, food and drinks all will be there. Don't hesitate to reach there if you are stuck.'
The outpouring of support highlighted the resilience and generosity of Karachiites, offering relief to those affected by the sudden flooding.
At least seven people were killed in Karachi on Tuesday after heavy monsoon rains battered the city, flooding neighbourhoods and paralysing traffic.
Heavy monsoon rains lashed various parts of the city, with Saadi Town receiving the highest recorded rainfall. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the following rainfall measurements were recorded across Karachi.
Saadi Town: 176 mm (highest), Gulshan-e-Hadeed: 173 mm, Nazimabad: 175.6 mm, Airport (Old Area): 158.7 mm, Jinnah Terminal: 152.8 mm, Surjani Town: 150.6 mm, North Karachi: 144.3 mm, Keamari: 140 mm, University Road: 137.4 mm, Defence Housing Authority: 133 mm, Gulshan-e-Memar: 132.7 mm, Korangi: 120.3 mm, Faisal Base: 115 mm, Masroor Base: 98 mm, Orangi Town: 67.7 mm
On the directives of Mayor Murtaza Wahab, a rain emergency has been enforced across Karachi, with all teams placed on high alert to respond to urban flooding, traffic disruptions, and other rain-related incidents.
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