Karachi: A young child who fell into an open manhole near Nipa Chowrangi on Sunday night remains missing, as search efforts continue. The incident has triggered widespread anger in the area, with residents strongly protesting what they describe as gross negligence by the authorities.
Rescue teams searched throughout the night, but operations were temporarily halted due to the lack of essential machinery. Officials stated that they did not have the required equipment for excavation, nor did any government department provide immediate assistance when needed.
Later, local residents arranged heavy machinery on their own to resume the search. The child, identified as three-year-old Ibrahim, son of Nabeel, had accompanied his family to a nearby departmental store. Upon exiting, he suddenly ran forward and fell into the uncovered manhole.
The child’s father said he was parking the motorcycle when Ibrahim slipped into the open drain. The grandfather added that Ibrahim was the only son of his parents and had tragically become a victim of administrative carelessness.
Following the incident, the child’s mother is in severe shock, while citizens in the area expressed deep grief and anger. Protesters blocked the road at Nipa Chowrangi by burning tyres, while routes toward Hassan Square and the University of Karachi were also closed. A media van was reportedly pelted with stones during the demonstration.
Meanwhile, the Sindh government has taken notice and initiated an inquiry. According to provincial spokesperson Sadiya Javed, the authorities are investigating why the manhole cover was missing and have assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible.
