Karachi traders suffer billions in losses amid torrential rains: report

As Karachi continues to reel from the spell of torrential rain two days ago, traders and shopkeepers have voiced concern over massive financial losses after their businesses suffered severe damage, amounting to billions of rupees.

According to a report published in Dawn, thousands of shops were badly affected, with losses estimated between Rs14–15 billion. Clothing and furniture markets were hit the hardest, as merchandise was ruined by relentless rain and flooding.

In areas such as the old city, Lyari, and Korangi, hundreds of shopkeepers watched helplessly as their livelihoods were washed away.

With forecasts warning of more heavy rain, traders fear further destruction and remain frustrated over how to protect their businesses from future flooding.

Read more: Dow University student holds administration accountable for rain mismanagement

Highlighting the scale of the crisis, Businessmen Group (BMG) Chairman Zubair Motiwala and Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani have urged the Sindh government to arrange compensation for affected traders and shopkeepers.

Meanwhile, prolonged power outages during the rains worsened the situation, bringing factories and industries to a standstill and inflicting additional financial losses.

Traders have called on the Sindh government to take urgent measures before the next spell of torrential rains, expected to hit the city from August 24, according to the NDMA.