Seven-Year-Old Boy Dies After Falling into Open Manhole in Karachi

A seven-year-old boy died after falling into an open manhole in Karachi’s Moach Goth area, prompting angry protests and causing major traffic disruption on Hub River Road and the Northern Bypass.

The child, identified as Jahangir, reportedly fell into the uncovered manhole in the Noor Shah area. Rescue workers, with the help of local residents, recovered his body and shifted it to a nearby hospital.

Following the incident, the victim’s family and residents staged a protest near Hub River Road and the Northern Bypass. The demonstrators blamed the uncovered manhole for the child’s death and demanded immediate action from the authorities to prevent similar tragedies.

Protesters blocked both roads, leading to severe traffic congestion and long queues of vehicles. The closure also caused difficulties for commuters travelling between different parts of the city and areas connected through Hub River Road.

Traffic police diverted vehicles towards Dabba Morr, 24 Market Saeedabad, and inner routes through Moach Goth to reduce congestion and help motorists avoid the protest site.

Police officials also reached the area and held negotiations with the protesters in an effort to reopen the roads and restore traffic flow.

The incident has once again highlighted the dangers posed by open manholes in Karachi, especially in densely populated neighbourhoods. Residents have repeatedly urged civic authorities to cover manholes and secure hazardous locations to protect pedestrians, particularly children.