Karachi, May 10, 2026 — Outrage is mounting across Karachi as thousands of residents say taps remain dry despite official assurances that water supply has been restored. Citizens in multiple neighbourhoods say they have gone without pipeline water for nearly two weeks and are being forced to rely on expensive private tankers.
The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) announced that repairs at the Dhabeji Pumping Station had been completed and that 40 million gallons per day had been returned to the system, asserting the city’s usual 650 million gallons per day supply was back and all pumping stations were operating normally. Residents from Korangi, Clifton, Liaquatabad, DHA, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Malir and other areas disputed those claims, saying many households have not received water since April 25.
Several residents accused authorities of presenting a misleading picture: while domestic pipelines lie dry, government hydrants appear to be functioning in some locations, feeding suspicion of unequal distribution. A resident of Gulistan-e-Jauhar said families are incurring heavy expenses for tanker deliveries despite repeated official statements that supply levels have normalized.
The controversy intensified after a joint raid by Rangers and KWSC officials near Lasbela Bridge uncovered an apparent large-scale theft operation tied to the city’s main supply. Investigators found a concealed tunnel linked to a 33-inch main line, along with a high-capacity suction pump and an illegal extraction setup allegedly used to siphon potable water directly from the corporation’s pipeline.
Laboratory tests of seized samples reportedly showed low total dissolved solids (TDS), indicating the diverted supply was sweet, treated water rather than groundwater. Officials suggested the operation may be connected to influential networks operating sub-soil distribution lines in the area. Cases have been registered under the Water Corporation Act and investigations are ongoing.
The developments have deepened public mistrust as residents demand transparent reporting on distribution, prompt action against illegal connections, and measures to ensure equitable access. Authorities say repairs and enforcement actions are underway, but many Karachi households remain without reliable pipeline water.
This account is based on reporting from ANI and The Express Tribune and was published as received.
