Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi has refuted reports of widespread deaths in the city due to the recent heatwave, calling the circulating figures inaccurate.
Speaking to the media at the Commissioner House on Wednesday, he clarified that the heatwave had affected 1700 people, resulting in 10 deaths. However, he acknowledged a 4-5% increase in the city’s death rate, with further investigations ongoing.
Addressing reports of mysterious deaths, he explained that information from hospitals indicates that deaths from heart attacks and other medical conditions were unrelated to the heatwave.
Naqvi revealed that on June 25, 147 people were admitted to hospitals due to heat-related illnesses. All but two were discharged after recovering. The two deceased individuals were admitted to the Qatar Hospital on June 25.
The Commissioner urged welfare organizations to coordinate with the administration on sensitive matters to prevent unnecessary fear and panic among citizens. He assured that the situation in Karachi arising from the heatwave is under control.
Naqvi emphasized that unverified figures regarding the number of deaths in the city have not been confirmed by any credible source. He urged welfare organizations and other institutions to refrain from independently releasing death statistics and instead allow the administration to verify them first.
No respite from heat for Karachi
Karachi swelters under intense heat as temperatures to hit 40 degrees
Karachi heatwave: 67 people brought to hospital with high fever
He highlighted that the Karachi administration is taking emergency measures to address the situation arising from the heatwave. The intense heat has left citizens struggling with electricity outages, with load shedding lasting 12-14 hours. Naqvi stated his intention to meet with K-Electric officials to address these issues.
He said his aim is to ensure no load shedding occurs in Karachi between midnight and 6 am, providing relief to citizens during the night and avoiding load shedding during the heatwave warning issued by the Meteorological Department.
Expressing concern over water supply issues, he questioned why there are now obstacles in areas with regular water supply. The Water Corporation has been tasked with providing complete details on water distribution, highlighting which areas are receiving water and which are facing supply issues.
