Karachi to miss out on 200 million gallons per day, after 72-inch diameter water pipeline ruptures

KARACHI: Water supply to major parts of Karachi was suspended after a 72-inch pipeline supplying water to Karachi from Thatta ruptured on Sunday.

Residents of the southern metropolis are already water starved and receive less than 50% of the required 1100 million gallons of water each day. Due to the ruptured pipeline Karachi has lost out on 200 million gallons which is about 40% of the 500 million gallons the city gets each day.

The Fault

According to Karachi Water & Sewerage Board (KWSB) officials a power failure at the Dhabeji pumping station caused buildup of back pressure in the pipeline; unable to take the increased pressure the 72-inch pipeline burst.

Power to Dhabeji was restored after four hours.

Observe Caution

While repair work on the pipeline is underway and water supply to the city was resumed through alternate means, it could take up to 48 hours for the repair work to be completed at Dhabeji. In light of the present situation authorities have advised consumers to observe caution and use water carefully.

Until the 72-inch pipeline resumes pumping water to Karachi, the city will not receive 200 million gallons or about 40-percent of its normal daily supply.