A six-inch water supply line was ruptured on Tuesday during K-IV augmentation work on University Road, compounding Karachi's civic challenges by disrupting water supply to several neighborhoods and exacerbating chronic traffic congestion.
According to officials of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC), the rupture occurred during excavation for the K-IV project, forcing a suspension of water supply to Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 13-D/3, Baloch Goth, and adjoining localities. Repair work was launched immediately, with officials stating the damaged pipeline is expected to be restored by Wednesday morning.
Frequent Ruptures During Construction Projects
This incident follows a major rupture near the Old Sabzi Mandi, where a 55-inch transmission main was damaged during construction work on the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. KWSC officials reported that water pipelines are being damaged almost daily during excavation and construction associated with both the Red Line BRT and K-IV augmentation projects.
These recurring ruptures severely affect the city's water distribution network and disrupt supply to consumers, leaving residents to grapple with both severe traffic congestion and recurring water shortages. The KWSC has repeatedly warned that construction activities without proper coordination are causing significant damage to underground utilities.
Impact on Residents
Residents of the affected areas have expressed frustration over the repeated disruptions. The water shortage adds to the daily hardships faced by commuters who already endure severe traffic jams on University Road due to ongoing construction work. The KWSC has urged the relevant authorities to coordinate with them before any excavation to prevent future incidents.
