Karachi faced a major water supply disruption on Saturday after a 48-inch diameter pipeline was damaged during construction work on the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) along University Road. The incident occurred near Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 1 in the Safoora area, where excavation work ruptured approximately 8 to 10 feet of the main water line, causing a massive leak. Authorities from the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) immediately shut down the supply and initiated emergency repairs.
Affected Areas and Impact
The suspension affected several neighborhoods, including various blocks of Gulshan-e-Iqbal, PIB Colony, Liaquatabad, Nazimabad, Gulberg, and Sharifabad. Residents faced acute inconvenience amid soaring temperatures, with many relying on water tankers. KWSC officials stated that restoration would take between 24 to 48 hours.
Recurring Issue During BRT Construction
This marks the fifth such incident in recent days where a water pipeline has been damaged during Red Line construction activities along the corridor. Officials raised concerns over coordination between civic utilities and infrastructure projects. The repeated disruptions have worsened Karachi's water crisis, already strained by persistent shortages and high summer demand.
Authorities have not yet commented on accountability or measures to prevent further damage during ongoing construction work.
