Karachi, June 25, 2024 — The city of Karachi continues to grapple with the devastating effects of a relentless heatwave, as rescue officials have recovered the bodies of seven more individuals from various areas. Most of the deceased, aged between 35 to 60 years, are believed to have succumbed to the extreme heat, exacerbated by their struggle with drug addiction.
The bodies were found scattered across neighborhoods including Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Landhi, Super Highway, and Federal B Area Karimabad. Authorities have transported the bodies to the morgue, where the process of identification is underway.
In addition to the fatalities, the intense heat has led to a surge in hospital admissions, with Dr Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi admitting at least 67 individuals due to high fever. Dr. Nizam Shaikh, overseeing the heat stroke ward, emphasized the critical need for hydration and cautioned against unnecessary outdoor activity during these harsh weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the heatwave’s impact extends beyond human casualties. In the Cattle Colony, Karachi’s vital livestock sector has suffered significant losses, with over 150 animals perishing in recent days. Dairy production has also been severely affected, prompting calls from the Cattle Farmers Association for urgent veterinary assistance and support from the Livestock Department.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued warnings predicting temperatures soaring up to 47 degrees Celsius in parts of Sindh, including Karachi, where the mercury could reach 41 degrees but feel like a scorching 52 degrees. The PMD has advised residents across the country, from Punjab to Balochistan, to brace for continued hot and dry conditions, with isolated chances of evening thunderstorms providing some relief in certain regions.
As Karachi mourns the loss of more lives to this unforgiving heatwave, authorities and residents alike remain vigilant, heeding warnings to prioritize safety and hydration amid one of the most severe heatwaves in recent memory.
