The All Private Schools Management Association Sindh (APSMA) has declared that all private schools in Karachi will operate normally on Friday. This decision was formally communicated to member institutions via an official circular. The association confirmed academic activities will proceed as scheduled, countering circulating rumors about a potential closure due to recent adverse weather conditions in the metropolitan city.
No Official Notification Received
APSMA clarified its stance, stating it had not received any official notification from the Sindh government directing the closure of schools. The circular explicitly denied the existence of such a government order. This lack of formal communication from provincial authorities was the primary factor influencing their decision to keep educational institutions open despite the recent spell of heavy rainfall and its associated challenges.
Focus on Safety Measures
While mandating that schools remain open, the association simultaneously issued important guidance. APSMA strongly urged all school managements to prioritize safety above all else. They were advised to continue academic activities but to do so while implementing all necessary precautions to ensure the complete well-being of students, teaching staff, and other employees during this period of unpredictable weather.
NDMA’s Rain Forecast
This development occurs alongside a new weather alert from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The federal authority has forecast another spell of significant rainfall for Karachi. This predicted heavy rain is expected to occur between August 24 and 28, potentially posing fresh challenges for the city still recovering from previous downpours and widespread urban flooding.
Potential for Urban Flooding
The NDMA’s warning specifically highlights serious risks for Karachi and Hyderabad. The forecasted heavy rains are likely to trigger urban flooding, particularly in low-lying areas of both major cities. This alert has put civic agencies and disaster management authorities on high alert, urging them to make necessary preparations to mitigate potential damage and ensure public safety.
Recent Rain-Related Devastation
Karachi is still reeling from the impact of three consecutive days of intense rainfall. The city’s infrastructure, including its road network, suffered severe damage. Numerous main and link roads were submerged, disrupting daily life and hampering mobility. The extensive damage has highlighted the city’s chronic vulnerability to monsoon rains and its inadequate drainage system.
Human and Infrastructural Toll
The previous rains had tragic consequences, claiming at least 20 lives in various rain-related incidents across Karachi. Furthermore, the power infrastructure was severely hit, with dozens of K-Electric feeders tripping. This resulted in prolonged power outages, leaving numerous areas without electricity for many hours and adding to the public’s difficulties.
Previous Government Holiday
In response to the initial crisis, the Sindh government had declared a public holiday this past Wednesday. This administrative decision was made to ensure citizen safety, allowing authorities to manage the emergency better. Officials had strongly advised people to remain indoors and avoid any non-essential travel throughout the city during the height of the rainfall.
