Karachi (HRNW)- The absence of manhole covers and exposed drains in Karachi continues to claim lives, with 27 people reportedly killed in 2025 after falling into open drains, yet authorities have largely failed to take effective measures.
Many victims were children, highlighting the severe public safety risk. Last year alone, 14 people died after falling into open drains, including six minors and eight adult men. Notable incidents include:
- An 8-year-old, Dilbar Ali, killed in an open drain in Korangi Mehran Town.
- A 3-year-old, Ibrahim, fell into an open drain near Nepa Chowrangi on November 30.
- A 4-year-old, Abdullah, in Shah Faisal and a 3-year-old, Asadullah, in Surjani were killed in drains.
- In Baldia Mochh Goth, 3-year-old Abdul Rehman, and on Jamshed Road, 5-year-old Ali lost their lives.
- Another 8-year-old, Ibrahim, fell into a drain on December 29.
Despite the tragic incidents, accountability remains unclear. Following previous disasters in Nepa and Shah Faisal, investigations were promised, and some officers were suspended, but comprehensive action has not been taken. Many areas in Baldia Town continue to have missing manhole covers, and local authorities, including Chairman Abdul Karim Askani, remain unresponsive.
Hundreds of open drains across the city pose ongoing risks, and planned administrative measures for improvement have been repeatedly delayed.
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