Sindh govt rubbishes reports of Shahrah-e-Bhutto collapse

KARACHI: Sindh government has rejected reports about the collapse and submerging of Shahrah-e-Bhutto at Jam Goth in Malir due to torrential rains, calling them baseless.

According to residents, the construction of Shahrah-e-Bhutto within the Malir River has restricted the natural flow of water, exacerbating the flood situation.

The raging waters not only broke through the road but also diverted their course, flooding surrounding residential areas.

However, the Sindh government spokesperson Nader Nabeel Gabol clarified that no cracks have appeared on the highway, which is still under construction. A cut was made to divert the rainwater flow, but this section has not yet been opened to the public.

 Gabol said Shahrah-e-Bhutto is being built by an international firm, and no negligence will be tolerated. A drainage system for the road will also be developed.

Heavy rains paralyses Karachi, schools closed

He added that water had been reported on Mirza Adam Khan Road but has since been cleared. Due to the high sea level, water flowed back into the Lyari River, but 30 pumps have already been installed for drainage, with more being added.

He further said that Karachi may receive another 100 mm of rain, but if it does not rain again, the M-9 Motorway will be completely cleared by noon.

Sindh government spokesperson Sadia Javed also said Bhutto Highway is open and traffic is running smoothly, urging citizens not to pay attention to rumours.

She admitted there were minor faults in some sections of the road, but assured they would be fixed soon. According to her, minor wear and tear is a natural process after the construction of new highways.

Taking a swipe at the MQM, Sadia Javed said its leaders were busy levelling baseless allegations against each other instead of helping people. “While they were sleeping after criticism, the mayor and administrative teams were on the roads serving the public,” she said.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited Shahrah-e-Bhutto and inspected the Malir River. The Chief Secretary briefed him on the rescue operation, while Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon also accompanied him.

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