Karachi: panic and protests erupt as toddler falls into manhole

WEB DESK: A frantic search is ongoing for a three-year-old boy who went missing late Sunday night after falling into an uncovered manhole near Nipa flyover in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal area. The incident occurred around 11pm outside a departmental store, according to rescue officials.

It has been reported that official machinery and administration reached the spot 12 hours later while the DC East also arrived at the accident site. The rescue operation is facing severe difficulties due to the unavailability of a drainage map, according to the Operation In-charge. The manhole and drainage system were searched up to the point where suspicion existed, stated Operation In-charge Aroosa. Since there is no manhole further ahead, they are now waiting for the relevant departments, added the Operation In-charge.

The child, identified as Ibrahim, is the only son of his parents. The family had been out shopping when the boy reportedly ran ahead and slipped into the open manhole. Rescue teams arrived promptly but were forced to suspend operations due to a lack of heavy machinery. Officials said no government department had provided the necessary equipment, and no officer was present at the site initially.

In response, local residents brought their own machinery and began excavation efforts to assist in the search. Ibrahim’s grandfather expressed frustration over the slow progress and called for immediate action, while the child’s mother reportedly lost consciousness following the incident.

The case sparked protests at Nipa Chowrangi, with residents blocking roads, burning tyres, and halting traffic toward Hassan Square. Traffic police confirmed that University Road near the flyover was closed in both directions, with vehicles being diverted to Rashid Minhas Road and Johar Mor.

Sindh government spokesperson Saadia Javed confirmed to Geo News that an inquiry has been launched to determine why the manhole cover was missing and vowed action against those responsible. Deputy Mayor Karachi Salman Murad said all rescue departments had been alerted, with KMC, KWSC, and SSWMB teams on-site to locate the child as quickly as possible.

The search continues amid growing public concern and unrest over safety hazards in the area.