It has finally started raining in Karachi after a devastating heatwave baked the city over the weekend, claiming more than 237 lives in two days. At least 63 more people died in Pakistan’s financial hub on Monday. Abbasi Shaheed Hospital (ASH) Medical Superintendent Dr Imran Samdani told Dawn News that most of the deaths occurred due to heat and gastro-related problems.
Dozens are still hospitalized in Karachi
Temperatures on Saturday rose to 44.8 degrees Celsius, the highest in Pakistan since 2000. On Sunday, the temperature in Karachi cooled a little to 42.5 degrees Celsius. More than 50 people lost their lives since Sunday night at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). Previously, it was reported that 85 people died on Saturday night at JPMC.
The Sindh province government has declared a state of emergency, canceling leaves for medical staff, including doctors. The government is increasing the stocks of medical supplies. On Saturday, temperatures in three districts of Sindh – Jacobabad, Sukkur and Larkana – had crossed 48 degrees Celsius. The much-needed rain on Monday evening came as a big relief.
However, dozens are still hospitalized in Karachi due to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and low blood pressure. Hospitals are overcrowded with patients. Elderly citizens were most affected by the heat. Over 150 dead bodies were brought to the Edhi morgue in Sohrab Goth over the weekend. Monday’s rains came well ahead of the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s prediction of June 25.
Pakistan Rangers open heatstroke facilities in Karachi
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has directed the National Disaster Management Authority to immediately start relief measures in and around Karachi. He also urged authorities to launch a campaign to raise awareness about precautionary measures among people. Prime Minister Sharif has instructed authorities to ensure that the heatwave victims get the best possible treatment.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Rangers Sindh have established heatstroke relief centers across Karachi to provide relief to people affected by the deadly heatwave. Doctors, paramedical staff and necessary facilities are available at each heatstroke center.
