KARACHI: The death toll from the ongoing heatwave in Karachi has risen to at least 10, with dozens of people shifted to hospitals after their condition deteriorated, officials said on Tuesday.
According to rescue sources, four of the victims died during treatment at hospitals, while six bodies were recovered from homes, a mosque and various locations across the city. The deaths were attributed to a combination of extreme heat and suspected drug overdose in some cases.
The bodies were found in areas including Defence, Liaquatabad, Surjani Town and along the Super Highway. Most of the deceased have yet to be identified. Among the victims were a 70-year-old man and a 35-year-old individual.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Chhipa Welfare Association, Chaudhry Shahid, said that a 35-year-old unidentified man was found dead near Saima Arabian Villas in Manghopir.
Separately, the body of a 50-year-old unidentified man was recovered near Noor Hotel in Gulshan-i-Hadeed, while another body — believed to be of a 36-year-old man — was found near Khayaban-i-Saqib in Defence Phase VIII. Officials said all three deaths were likely caused by excessive drug use, compounded by the severe heat.
Meanwhile, a 60-year-old man was found in a critical condition near Boat Basin in Clifton and was shifted to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, where he died during treatment.
In another incident, a 50-year-old unidentified man was discovered in an unwell state beneath the Liaquatabad No 10 bridge and was taken to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, where he succumbed.
Similarly, a 45-year-old man found unconscious near Jamali Bridge on the Super Highway was also transported to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital but could not survive.
Heat and health risks
Rescue officials warned that the ongoing heatwave has significantly increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and those with underlying conditions or substance abuse issues.
In a separate case, a 50-year-old man identified as Dur Mohammad was found in a deteriorating condition near Surjani Scheme 33 and was shifted to Jinnah Hospital for medical assistance.
Authorities have urged citizens to take precautionary measures, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and ensure adequate hydration as temperatures remain high across the city.
