Decades of Neglect and Mismanagement Leave Karachi Parched

Karachi is the largest and most populous city in Pakistan. It has clean, safe drinking water that has become very scarce. That is to say, half the 20 million people living there are without the very basic provisions of life.

In an economic storm with Karachi being the main culprit, a water crisis has torn Karachi apart. The supply system includes unethical contamination, aging infrastructure, and horrible abuse. These days, the inhabitants are exposed to the maladies and sufferings ensuing from these conditions.

A Thirsty Metropolis in Peril

According to recent reports by water experts and NGOs, water from unprotected sources is relied on by almost 50% of Karachi’s population, including polluted wells, illegal tankers, and corrupt water pipelines. To compound the seriousness of the situation, many in low-income areas such as Orangi, Lyari, and Korangi spend a considerable part of their earnings on private water tankers that are often of questionable standards.

“We either drink dirty water or buy water in expensive bottles. Still, we do not know if it is clean,” said Farzana Ahmed, a mother of three from Surjani Town. “Our children have been falling sick from stomach infections.” 

Why is Karachi Running Dry?

Many reasons contribute to the crisis:

• Old Infrastructure: Karachi’s supply system is very old, suffering from massive leakage and illegal connections.
• Contamination: Usually, water pipes carrying mixed industrial wastes and sewage are the reasons behind outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera and typhoid. 
• Mismanagement and Shortages: Supply falls short by hundreds of millions of gallons daily, creating an imbalance in demand that KWSB cannot handle. 
• Climate Change: Reduced rainfall and depleted groundwater reserves are further exacerbating the scarcity.

A Call for Action

Karachi’s water crisis is not just a civic failure—it’s a humanitarian emergency. Without urgent intervention, the city’s most vulnerable will continue to pay the price.

“Water is life,” says environmental lawyer Afia Salam. “If Karachi collapses due to water scarcity, Pakistan’s economy will feel the shockwaves.”

As the city braces for another scorching summer, the question remains: Will Karachi’s leaders turn the tide before it’s too late?