Islamabad, 23 Apr, 2025: Karachi swelters under a rising heatwave, with meteorologists predicting temperatures soaring between 42°C and 44°C from April 19 to April 23.
Due to the city’s infamous humidity, however, the temperature may feel closer to 50°C, sparking renewed concern among citizens and experts alike.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the heat intensity is expected to escalate in the coming days, further straining the already stretched infrastructure of Pakistan’s largest city.
Karachi swelters annually during the summer, but this year, the warning signs are particularly stark.
Environmental analysts say the city has entered a dangerous feedback loop where increased use of electricity during heatwaves contributes further to rising urban temperatures.
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Climate change specialist Mujtaba Baig noted that Karachi’s minimal green cover just 5% of the city’s total area combined with concrete-heavy development, creates a heat-trapping urban environment.
The absence of shade, compounded by a persistent water shortage, leaves many residents exposed and vulnerable.
Karachi swelters, and its public services are faltering under the pressure. Most neighbourhoods face intermittent water supply, sometimes going days without access.
Public transportation remains unreliable, with packed buses lacking ventilation particularly dangerous for women, children, and older passengers.
Daily wage earners, who work long hours outdoors without access to cooling facilities, are most at risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
Dr Aftab Hussain, a healthcare professional, advised residents to avoid outdoor activity between 11am and 4pm, stay hydrated, and steer clear of sugary drinks and unsafe food.
He warned against consuming bottled drinks exposed to sunlight, citing risks of bacterial contamination.
Health authorities claim they’ve directed hospitals to activate 24/7 services, establish emergency heatstroke centres, and ensure consistent electricity and ambulance availability.
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However, experts like Baig argue these efforts are short-term and insufficient. He called for structural reforms more trees, better transport, and reliable water supply as key solutions.
Over the past five years, Karachi has seen worsening heatwaves with rising death tolls. In 2023 alone, official figures recorded 35 deaths, while hospitals reported up to 170.
This gap in reporting highlights growing concern over the government’s preparedness to tackle climate change’s local impacts.
Without urgent reforms, experts warn, Karachi’s summers will only grow deadlier.
