As the nation marks Eid-ul-Fitr, Karachi grapples with severe water shortages persisting across various areas of the metropolis. Despite hopes for relief during the religious festival, the water crisis shows no signs of abating, with the suspension of water supply through tankers expected to endure for the next two days.
As per Dawn, the most severely affected regions include upscale neighborhoods such as Defence Housing Authority and Clifton, where residents heavily rely on potable water supplied via tankers. Complaints have poured in from residents across the city, decrying the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) for exacerbating their woes during Ramadan with acute water shortages.
In response, a KWSC spokesperson stated that the corporation had taken measures to ensure water supply and drainage throughout the city before and during Eid. However, disruptions in water supply were attributed to mechanical issues, necessitating the suspension of supply for repair and maintenance work.
Despite assurances from the KWSC’s chief executive officer, Syed Salahuddin Ahmed, residents continue to face prolonged interruptions in water flow through main pipelines, forcing them to resort to costly alternatives provided by unscrupulous water tanker operators. Allegations have also surfaced from residents in District Central, claiming that water intended for their district is being diverted to other parts of the city.
The situation is further compounded by the closure of the Sakhi Hasan Hydrant for the past three days, depriving residents of a vital alternative water source. Meanwhile, with Eid celebrations underway, the water utility has announced the suspension of water supply through tankers from seven official hydrants on Wednesday and Thursday, as tanker drivers will be off-duty.
