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Updated 11 Jul, 2022 12:46pm

Three people electrocuted in Karachi rains, street light pole to blame says KE

The death toll from electrocutions has risen to three so far in Karachi.

The dead were identified as Asif and Hassan in Garden’s Shoe Market and one other case is said to have taken place in Korangi’s Bilal Colony. The bodies were sent to Civil and Jinnah hospitals, by rescue teams.

K-Electric expressed deep regret over the news. According to a preliminary investigation, the electrocution was caused by a street light pole and K-Electric’s installations were not involved, a spokesman said. “K-Electric is not responsible for the installation, repair or maintenance of street light poles.”

There are about 100,000 poles across Karachi run by KE but there are many others that are either DMC or KMC street light poles. KE poles are always grounded (unless the grounding mechanism is stolen).

KE had to cut power in 500 feeders over safety concerns and after the rains. Power is being supplied from 1400 feeders, KE said. A lack of drainage makes maintenance difficult.

Affected areas are Baldia, Gulshan, Bin Qasim, Surjani, Korangi, PECHS, Clifton and DHA.

The Meteorological Department said that the maximum rain that fell was in DHA at 92mm Monday. Then 91mm rain was recorded at PAF base Masroor.

According to PakWeather.com, the highest rainfall of 228mm was recorded in Kemari in the last 12 hours and 135mm in Korangi and 111mm in Saddar.

A track of the National Highway from Karachi to Hyderabad has also been closed as has the Korangi Causeway.

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