KARACHI, Sept 10: The caretaker city government has shifted about 750 people from low-lying areas amid fear of flooding in Malir River following heavy rains in the city. The evacuees included residents of Rehmat Colony, Madina Colony and Ziaul Haq Colony, according to a statement.

The city government officials told DCO Karachi Fazlur Rehman that these people had been shifted to a camp in the Government Boys and Girls Secondary School, Block 1, Gulshan-i-Iqbal. All necessities of life, including food, medical facilities and essential staff for assistance, are available at the camp.

It may be noted that flood warning had been issued midday Saturday asking residents of low-lying areas on either side of Lyari River, after heavy rain lashed its catchment area, to move to safer places.

Meanwhile, the DCO has declared rain emergency and asked officials of the departments of works & services, health, fire brigade and civil defence of the city government to ensure their presence in their offices to meet any possible eventuality.

He also visited rain-affected areas and monitored the evacuation.

He directed all town administrations to clear roads from rainwater within 24 hours.—

APP