KARACHI: A tragic incident at Karachi’s Manora Beach on Wednesday claimed the lives of three students from Dow Medical College, part of the Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), while another remains in critical condition. The students were on a privately arranged picnic when the tragedy struck.
According to hospital authorities, the deceased have been identified as Ahmed Kashif, Asharib Munir, and Ashar. Their bodies were shifted to the Trauma Center at Civil Hospital Karachi for medico-legal procedures.
Officials confirmed that Abdul Majeed is being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while Rizwan and Rabeeh, who were also rescued, are under observation in the emergency ward with oxygen support. Both are reported to be out of danger.
Incident details and university clarification
Principal Dr. Saba Sohail of Dow Medical College stated that all the deceased and injured were final-year students. She clarified that approximately 150 students had gone on an official university-organized picnic to Hawksbay, from which all returned safely. However, a separate group of 15 students had independently arranged a private trip to Manora without notifying the university administration.
Dr. Sohail said the incident occurred around 2 p.m., and upon receiving the news, the university administration immediately reached the hospital. Rescue teams managed to recover three bodies, while search operations are ongoing for one missing student.
Medical response and official statement
Dr. Khalid Bukhari, Medical Superintendent of Civil Hospital Karachi, confirmed that three bodies were brought to the facility, and emergency treatment was administered to the others. He added that Abdul Majeed’s condition is stable but continues to be monitored in the ICU.
The Dow University administration expressed profound grief over the loss of its students and extended condolences to the families. The university also confirmed that all students had gone on the trip with parental consent. A formal inquiry has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the drowning.
This tragic incident has deeply shaken Karachi’s academic and medical communities, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures at recreational beaches.
