Torrential rains have paralysed Pakistan’s largest commercial hub, halting business activity across major markets and inflicting losses of more than Rs10 billion in just two days, traders said on Thursday.

Heavy downpours disrupted daily life as markets remained closed, while floodwaters exposed the city’s crumbling infrastructure.

Roads turned into ponds, manholes overflowed, and mud blocked shopping areas, keeping buyers away.

Business centres, including Liaquatabad, Hyderi, Paposh Nagar, Empress Market, Tariq Road, Jodia Bazaar, Bolton Market, Jama Cloth, Lighthouse, Medicine Market, Motandas, and various mobile and electronics hubs, stayed either fully or partially shut.

Traders complained that rainwater entered shops, destroying goods worth millions.

Power outages compounded losses, while owners now face hefty repair and cleanup costs.

“In two days alone, we lost goods worth millions. Water flooded our shops and ruined all stock,” said one trader.Despite the mounting damage, no official announcement of relief or compensation has yet been made, drawing criticism over poor governance.

Traders have urged the government to immediately launch drainage and sanitation drives to prevent a repeat of the crisis.

Meanwhile, torrential rains hit Sarjani, North Karachi, Shah Faisal, Malir Cantonment, Gulshan-e-Hadeed, and industrial areas.

Major arteries, including Sharae Faisal, University Road, and Shahrah-e-Pakistan, have been waterlogged for two consecutive days.

At least 20 people, including two brothers, lost their lives due to electrocution, collapsing walls, and drowning in drains. The Korangi causeway remains closed to traffic.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department said the rain system over Karachi persists and is expected to weaken by late Friday night, with heavier downpours shifting towards Sanghar, Mirpurkhas, and adjoining districts.