Karachi: Cyclone Asna threatens as Sindh gov’t ramps up response effort

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah provided an update on the administration’s efforts in response to cyclone Asna threatening Karachi and other areas.

He said that the government was working to manage the situation and ensure relief for affected residents.

Read more: Karachi: Chaos erupts at grand opening of Dream Bazaar

The Sindh government set up a rain emergency cell at the Chief Minister’s House, which remains operational. He commended the local government department and residents for their efforts and expressed optimism that these actions would alleviate the impact of cyclone Asna in Karachi and surrounding areas.

Heavy rainfall have been relentlessly pouring in different regions across Sindh, with Thatta, Mirpurkhas, and other areas affected.

The Sindh CM observed that although the rainfall in 2020 and 2022 was unprecedented, the administration’s response has improved significantly compared to the 2007 floods.

He also discussed environmental initiatives, mentioning ongoing efforts related to a carbon credits project and noting that Sindh was ahead of other provinces in environmental measures.

He was quick to mention that the Prime Minister has also acknowledged some of these initiatives.

The water level in Manchar Lake is currently at 115 feet, but there is no immediate risk of flooding. Murad Shah assured that any additional rainfall would be managed effectively, and the irrigation department has been directed to address the situation on an emergency basis.

Meanwhile in Mirpurkhas, Mayor Abdul Rauf Ghori reported that key highways, including Post Office Chowk, Station Chowk, and Civil Hospital Road, have been cleared.

However, the main Hyderabad road remains affected by high water levels, with an estimated five more hours needed for complete clearance.

Read more: Cyclone threat: Ban imposed on swimming in Karachi beaches

Low-lying areas in Mirpurkhas are also still inundated, with an expected three-day period required for these areas to dry out.