KARACHI:
Karachi’s fragile water supply system has been dealt a fresh blow after a major section of the recently inaugurated Rs12 billion Hub Canal was washed away by flash floods, cutting off water to large parts of the city.
According to officials, the New Hub Canal inaugurated by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on August 13 sustained severe damage near the Northern Bypass following days of torrential rain. A 20-metre stretch of the canal collapsed when floodwaters from the city’s drainage system smashed into both the old and new structures.
A spokesperson for the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) confirmed the incident, saying, “The Hub Canal has been damaged due to flash floods. Emergency repair work has already begun and will be completed within 36 hours.” The spokesperson also revealed that a Sui Gas pipeline laid over the canal had been dislodged, worsening the situation.
The collapse has temporarily halted water supply to Karachi’s West, Central, and Keamari districts, leaving residents in these areas bracing for severe shortages. Authorities have urged citizens to conserve water until repairs are finalized.
The canal, touted as a lifeline for the metropolis and part of a high-profile infrastructure project, was expected to significantly improve Karachi’s water distribution system. However, its collapse just weeks after inauguration has raised serious questions over the quality of construction and flood resilience of major public projects.
