Every summer

As temperatures continue to rise, the scorching summer is once again becoming a serious challenge for the people of Karachi. With frequent power outages, water shortages and a lack of shaded public spaces, daily life becomes increasingly difficult, especially for low-income communities, students and elderly citizens. While heatwaves are becoming a seasonal norm, there seems to be little long-term planning to mitigate their impact. More public-awareness campaigns, provision of cooling centres and improved electricity and water management are urgently needed.

Furthermore, tree plantation drives and green urban planning must be prioritised to counter the urban heat island effect that makes Karachi’s summer even more unbearable. It is high time authorities treat this as a recurring public health and infrastructure issue, not just a seasonal inconvenience.

Tooba Abbasi

Karachi