Negligence by Karachi’s civic authorities has once again claimed an innocent life. Eight-year-old Dilbar Ali died after falling into an uncovered manhole while playing in Mehran Town, Korangi, reigniting serious concerns over the city’s failing municipal system.
According to local residents, Dilbar Ali was playing with other children in the neighbourhood when he wandered close to an open manhole on the road.
Losing his balance, he fell into the deep sewer. Residents attempted to rescue the child immediately and alerted the relevant authorities, but delays in the rescue operation proved fatal.
Locals said that the issue of open manholes has persisted for a long time in Mehran Town and surrounding areas. Despite repeated complaints, neither manhole covers were installed nor any action taken against those responsible.
Following the incident, anger and grief have gripped the area, with residents accusing the civic administration of gross negligence.
Residents have demanded the immediate closure of open manholes across the city and strict action against responsible officials to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Police arrived at the scene soon after being informed and initiated legal proceedings, while the child’s body was shifted to hospital for medico-legal formalities.
It is worth noting that such incidents are not new in Karachi. Earlier this month, a three-year-old boy, Ibrahim, died after falling into an open manhole near a shopping mall at NIPA Chowrangi.
Several similar incidents have been reported since, yet no effective measures have been taken by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, the Sindh local government minister, or the provincial government, with political statements continuing to replace concrete action.
