Tag: Karachi

  • Protests against loadshedding turn violent in Lyari

    Protests against loadshedding turn violent in Lyari

    Residents of Karachi’s Lyari staged a protest against prolonged load-shedding in their area on Wednesday, blocking both tracks of Mauripur Road and stopping vehicular traffic, Dawn reports. Police were allegedly forced to fire tear gas shells and baton charge the protestors to clear the road. 

    The vice chairman of UC-7 in  Lyari, Zohaib Baloch, who is one of the organisers of the protest, reportedly told Dawn that Lyari residents were facing up to 16 hours of load shedding daily, which exacerbated the crisis of water in the locality. 

    A large number of people, including women and children, staged a sit-in on Mauripur Road near Dua Hotel, blocking one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city. 

    A police officer, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that they were compelled to take aggressive action when protestors started ‘smashing’ cars and other vehicles on the road.

    Baloch, however, claims that the police charged the locals with batons and fired tear gas at them in order to disperse the protest. He adds that their protest would continue until their demands were fulfilled. 

    According to Dawn, Baloch said that residents at Mira Naka in Lyari were protesting the same problem. Alas, this is not the first time residents of what is considerably one of Karachi’s oldest neighbourhoods have staged protests against insufficient facilities and provisions. 

    In fact, just earlier this week on Monday, residents of Lyari staged a protest against long hours of gas shortages, claiming that and the scarcity of fuel forces them to burn wood to cook meals. 

    The smoke that rises from the burning wood has caused sickness in children, while the infrastructure of houses has also been affected due to the use of wood fire. 

    Residents of Mandra Para, Rahiman Soomra and Baloch Mohallo placed gas cylinders and gas stoves on the road to protest, and the protestors included women and children.

    Karachi Press Club president Saeed Sarbazi said that K-Electric might have reasons to resort to load-shedding on the pretext of ‘losses’, but a host of issues must be considered for the problem to be resolved, Dawn reports. 

    He added that residents of Lyari were of a working-class background and thereby could not afford exorbitant electricity bills, saying that the problem required a political and social initiative.

  • Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    Yamaha proposes a ferry service linking Do Darya and Port Qasim, expanding water sports facilities in Sindh

    In a groundbreaking announcement, a Japanese firm, Yamaha, has presented a proposal to launch a ferry service connecting Karachi’s Do Darya with Port Qasim, as well as develop various water sports facilities across the province of Sindh.

    The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah and Yoshiyuki ITO, the Senior General Manager for Central Asia and the Middle East at Yamaha Japan.

    The officials explored the potential of establishing water sports facilities at different barrages and lakes in Sindh, with a particular focus on enhancing recreational activities.

    A statement issued by the CM House outlined the discussion, revealing that the proposed ferry service between Do Darya and Port Qasim was among the key topics.

    Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed enthusiasm for the idea, emphasising the immense potential to develop water sports facilities in collaboration with Yamaha Pakistan.

    The chief minister further highlighted the possibilities for establishing these facilities at various barrages in Sindh, including Keenjhar, Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri Barrages.

    He underlined the importance of involving the private sector in such endeavors, which would contribute to the growth of water-based recreational activities in the region.

    During the meeting, the Yamaha representative informed Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah that the proposed ferry service would not only facilitate transportation but also provide recreational opportunities.

    Additionally, he emphasised the quality and performance of Yamaha’s WaveRunners, indicating their suitability for water sports enthusiasts.

    The introduction of a ferry service and the development of water sports facilities in Sindh would not only boost tourism but also enhance the overall experience for locals and visitors alike.

    As the proposal moves forward, collaboration between Yamaha and the provincial government holds the promise of an exciting future for water-based recreational activities in Sindh.

  • Karachi residents disappointed as ATMs run out of cash ahead of Eid-ul-Azha

    Karachi residents disappointed as ATMs run out of cash ahead of Eid-ul-Azha

    As the country prepares to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha on June 29, the residents of Karachi are encountering a pressing issue with the depletion of cash in automated teller machines (ATMs).

    Consumers have expressed their grievances regarding the frequent unavailability of ATM services during the lead-up to Eid festivities.

    “We have made multiple visits to ATMs since this morning, only to find them out of order and devoid of cash,” shared concerned individuals.

    It is not uncommon for consumers to encounter difficulties with ATMs nearing the arrival of Eid. This situation arises due to the heightened demand for cash withdrawals, particularly for the purchase of sacrificial animals.

    Pakistan is set to observe Eid on June 29 (Thursday). The government has declared a four-day holiday for the public, including the Day of Arafah, which falls on June 28.

  • Chinese company ‘China Power’ plans to set up electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Sindh

    Chinese company ‘China Power’ plans to set up electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Sindh

    A delegation from the Chinese firm ‘China Power’ expressed keen interest in setting up an industrial plant in Sindh for the production of electric vehicles. The meeting between the company representatives and Sindh Minister for Information and Transport, Sharjeel Memon, took place in Karachi on Wednesday.

    Minister Memon warmly welcomed the company’s interest and assured them of the provincial government’s full support in facilitating investors and industrialists in the region. This move highlights the government’s commitment to promoting investment and boosting the manufacturing sector in Sindh.

    This is not the first time a Chinese company has shown interest in establishing a manufacturing plant in Karachi. Last year, another Chinese company agreed to establish Pakistan’s first intra-city bus manufacturing company in the city. This initiative aimed to make buses more affordable and accessible to the public.

    The announcement was made by Minister Memon following his meeting with the country manager of the bus company. The manufacturing plant, to be established on an 18-acre land, is expected to be operational within the next 20 months, with an annual production capacity of 500 buses.

    Minister Memon emphasised that the establishment of a public transport manufacturing plant remains a top priority for the provincial government, and efforts are being made to expedite the project. He further mentioned via his Twitter account that he had a detailed meeting with a leading Chinese bus manufacturing company, and they have agreed to initiate Pakistan’s first intra-city bus manufacturing plant in Karachi.

    The interest shown by ‘China Power’ and the previous commitment from the Chinese bus manufacturing company indicate growing confidence in the investment potential and business environment of Sindh. These ventures can not only enhance the local manufacturing sector but also contribute to the development of sustainable transportation options in Pakistan.

    Overall, the collaboration between Chinese companies and the provincial government of Sindh demonstrates a significant step towards fostering industrial growth and expanding the electric vehicle and public transportation sectors in the region.

  • ‘You will see progress in Karachi’; Murtaza Wahab has promised to keep

    ‘You will see progress in Karachi’; Murtaza Wahab has promised to keep

    Murtaza Wahab, newly elected mayor of Karachi, has said in a press conference on Tuesday that he and his party want to get to work. “You will see progress in Karachi now,” he promised.

    He mentioned that Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) will do practical work with clear methods.
    Murtaza Wahab also stated that to fulfill legal requirements, him and Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah will be elected as Chairman from a union committee within 10 days.

    Stressing that solving municipal issues is their priority, Wahab stated that they will change the old sewage system and in this way, people’s problems can be solved permanently.
    “Transport problem in Karachi is also our priority,” he pointed out.

    “We have already fulfilled the promise for public buses with the people of Karachi and still work is continuing on Red and Yellow line service,” the mayor observed.

  • ‘Pakistan was prepared but largely spared the full force of Cyclone Biparjoy’: Senator Sherry Rehman

    ‘Pakistan was prepared but largely spared the full force of Cyclone Biparjoy’: Senator Sherry Rehman

    Cyclone Biparjoy made landfall in India’s Gujarat on Thursday, largely sparing the coastal areas of Sindh in Pakistan. Due to swift evacuations ordered by Senator Sherry Rehman and executed by army forces, the inundated areas saw no loss of human lives.

    Forecasted to be hit hardest by the storm was the fishing port of Keti Bandar. According to an official from the Sindh provincial irrigation department, Keti Bandar suffered “zero damage”. Some shops have reopened in the city as intruding seawater has started receding. Fishermen have gradually started returning to Keti Bandar, anxious to make up for the several days of lost income.

    Biparjoy made landfall as a Category 1 cyclone, after weakening from its initial Category 3 status while it was in the Arabian Sea. Biparjoy further weakened into a cyclonic storm and was expected to become a depression by Friday evening, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

    Life in Sindh is returning to normal, said Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Shops and markets have gradually reopened in Thatta and Karachi Commissioner ordered the resumption of examinations and other education-related activities from June 17.

    The authorities also lifted the ban on going out into the sea.

    However, fishermen were advised to refrain from venturing out into the open sea until the system ends on Saturday (today).

  • Cyclone Biporjoy: Everything you need to know about its name

    Cyclone Biporjoy: Everything you need to know about its name

    Cyclone Biporjoy is expected to make landfall on the Arabian Sea coastal belt today (Thursday). Authorities in both Pakistan and India are on high alert to avoid any disaster.

    The name of the cyclone has left many curious. The name ‘Biparjoy’ was coined by Bangladesh. It means disaster or calamity in Bengali.

    Why is it important to name cyclones?

    The reasoning behind naming cyclones is pretty simple. The storm is either given a code or a name, and it’s simpler to remember a name than a string of letters, numbers, or technical terminology.

    Who decides the name of the cyclones?

    The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) maintains rotating lists of names, which are appropriate for each tropical cyclone basin.
    As a common rule, cyclones formed in different ocean basins across the world are named by those areas, regional specialised meteorological centres (RSMCs) and Tropical Cyclone Warning Centres (TCWCs).

  • Cyclone Biparjoy: Karachi spared, Keti Bandar on high alert

    Cyclone Biparjoy: Karachi spared, Keti Bandar on high alert

    Karachi may be spared from the worst of Cyclone Biparjoy, the latest trajectories of the tropical storm seem to suggest.

    “The very severe cyclonic system (VSCS) Biparjoy will not directly hit Karachi; however, it will certainly hit Keti Bandar,” Minister of Climate Change Sherry Rehman said on Tuesday.

    Senator Sherry Rehman warned on a private TV show that there is no other option but evacuation for the residents of Keti Bandar.

    She added that Karachi may experience light rainfall today, but heavy rainfall is expected on Thursday and Friday. Karachi is likely to receive 110mm of rainfall, while Thatta, Badin, and Sajawal are expected to receive 330mm of rain.

    Sherry Rehman said panic is natural, pointing out that it is human psychology to panic when danger is near. However, following safety precautions can help us avoid danger.

    The Ministry of Climate Change has issued a High Alert for the residents of Keti Bandar and initiated the evacuation process.

    The senator urged locals to cooperate with the government and emphasized that the government did not want to resort to force, but if residents did not follow the SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), necessary action would be taken.

    “We have a red alert in place until June 18 and will issue a new advisory at 11 or 12 o’clock on the day the storm is expected to make landfall,” she added.

    In a separate tweet, she stated: “Panic is understandable, human nature; but it’s important to move with caution and calm.”

    “Evacuations are painful, stressful, and hard to embark on, but we must insist on them in areas where we see #CycloneBiparjoy making landfall. For coastal areas like Keti Bandar, evacuations are not optional.”

    During the same appearance on Geo News’ ‘Aj Shahzeb Khanzada Ke Saath,’ Pakistan Meteorologist Department (PMD) Sindh Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz said the storm’s intensity had somewhat decreased.

    “There is no dangerous situation in Karachi; the cyclone will exit from the city’s south,” he said.

    He further added that the storm was heading toward the north.

    “It will then move northeast, where it will hit or pass Keti Bandar and Indian Gujarat,” he said, commenting on the cyclone’s trajectory.

  • ‘Mission Majnu agaya’: Pakistani Twitter users roast economics professor for spreading fake news

    ‘Mission Majnu agaya’: Pakistani Twitter users roast economics professor for spreading fake news

    Mission Majnu Part 2 shuru?

    Yehi tou lagta hai Steve Hanke babu ko, who took to Twitter to share a video of smoke rising from a building, claiming that it was a nuclear power plant in Karachi, and then proceeded to blame authorities for not taking the matter seriously.

    We would also like to point out that Steve Hank is a professor of Economics at the very prestigious John Hopkins. A professor of his stature is expected to share only the truth.

    https://twitter.com/steve_hanke/status/1668329656087629824?s=20

    Except, its not true. The video, from 12th June, is not of a nuclear power plant blast but its from a fire at a grid station in DHA, which left residents without light for hours.

    But if Pakistanis are good at anything, it is making memes to roast others. And we got some hilarious responses.

    Quick someone fly Sidharth Malhotra to Karachi!

    Mission Majnu say fact checking seekhien sir!

    https://twitter.com/legsidehack/status/1668497941256888327?s=20
    https://twitter.com/SeaweeedBrain_/status/1668353773326983180?s=20

  • Here are some tips to remember as Cyclone Biparjoy reaches Karachi

    Here are some tips to remember as Cyclone Biparjoy reaches Karachi

    Authorities in Karachi are on high alert as Geo reported today that residents of Defence Housing Authority have been warned to take precautionary measures after Cyclone Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea moves closer to the coast.

    Residents are being advised to keep their basements and windows shut and call DHA helpline 1092 in case of any emergency.

    A a list of requirements in case of emergency has also been shared on their Twitter account.

    As authorities prepare for the worse, citizens of Karachi on Twitter are sending each other advise in order to help prepare in case the worst situation happens. Twitter user Sabah Bano Malik began this trend when she asked her followers what things to keep in mind as the cyclone approaches the city:

    “As someone whose never experienced a cyclone what do I do,” she wrote.

    Whether it is having a prepared kit or stocking up, Karachi citizens came forward with the best tips:

    https://twitter.com/whereizmydeath/status/1667939730250686464?s=20