Karachi: missing toddler’s body found in drain after 14 hours

WEB DESK: The body of a toddler who had fallen into a manhole in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal area has finally been recovered after 14 hours. According to rescue sources, the deceased’s body was found in a drain near the Federal Urdu University’s Gulshan Campus, close to Karachi University.

Three-year-old Ibrahim, went missing Sunday night after falling into an uncovered manhole near Nipa flyover in Gulshan-e-Iqbal area. Rescue teams arrived quickly but had to suspend operations due to a lack of heavy machinery, prompting local residents to bring their own equipment to assist. Ibrahim’s grandfather expressed frustration, and his mother reportedly fainted. The incident sparked protests at Nipa Chowrangi, with roads blocked and traffic diverted.

Earlier today, Mayor Murtaza Wahab expressed distress over the incident and assured the family that all efforts are underway. While rescue teams responded quickly, they initially lacked heavy machinery, prompting local residents to bring their own equipment to help. The boy’s grandfather voiced frustration, and his mother reportedly fainted, leading to protests that blocked roads at Nipa Chowrangi.

Mayor Wahab confirmed that CCTV footage has been obtained and will be reviewed to ensure a transparent investigation. He pledged action against any administrative negligence found. The mayor also highlighted ongoing safety efforts, noting that the Karachi Water Board has installed 88,000 manhole covers in the past year. He expressed regret over attempts to politicise the tragedy, emphasising the administration’s focus on resolving the issue. Meanwhile, the Sindh government has launched an inquiry into the missing cover, and city authorities continue search operations amid growing public concern.