Pakistan’s Karachi faces severe protests due to persistent water and power outages.
Karachi residents rallied on University Road, protesting the escalating water and electricity shortages affecting multiple areas, primarily PIB Colony, according to ARY News.
The demonstrations have resulted in significant traffic disruptions, with both tracks leading to Hassan Square near Newtown police station blocked.
Worsening Shortages and Traffic Woes
The water and electricity crisis in Karachi has intensified, with protestors taking to the streets due to inadequate services.
The protest on University Road has paralyzed traffic in nearby areas, worsening the struggles of daily commuters.
Moreover, an unresolved water line leakage in the old Sabzi Mandi area has further disrupted traffic, as flooding from the leak has rendered parts of the road nearly impassable.
Efforts for Resolution Remain Stalled
Negotiations between police and protesters have so far failed to yield results, as residents insist on receiving a stable supply of water and electricity.
Despite the Water Corporation’s promises to address the situation, repair work on main lines damaged during the BRT project remains insufficient, further prolonging the shortage.
The Water Corporation previously claimed to have completed repairs at three different sites, but citizens in several areas continue to suffer from a water shortage, affecting communities in Nazimabad, North Nazimabad, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal.
History of Protests Over Power and Water
The frustration in Karachi isn’t new; protests erupted in several neighborhoods in early October as residents confronted K-Electric over lengthy power cuts and surging bills.
Roads including MA Jinnah Road and Shahrah-i-Quaideen saw bumper-to-bumper traffic, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded for hours.
Women and children from Jacob Lines also blocked key routes, protesting K-Electric’s disconnection due to unpaid bills they deemed unfair.
Karachi’s ongoing water and electricity crisis continues to push residents to their limits, with widespread unrest disrupting the city’s infrastructure and daily life.
