KMC Graveyard Expansion: Addressing Karachi’s Burial Crisis
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is taking action to address the looming burial space crisis in the city. With existing cemeteries nearing capacity, the KMC has announced plans to establish five new graveyards. SindhNews.com reports that this initiative aims to provide much-needed relief for residents.
Expanding Burial Space in Karachi
These new graveyards include four massive 500-acre sites on the outskirts of Karachi and a 25-acre plot located within the city limits. This proposal has received initial approval from the Sindh government, with formal endorsement expected soon. The Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab spearheaded this plan to combat the impending shortage.
Current State of Karachi’s Graveyards
Karachi currently has around 220 graveyards, with 192 officially allocated. The KMC oversees 46 of these. The rest are managed by various organizations. The KMC has already banned burials in several major graveyards due to space constraints, though enforcement is inconsistent.
Challenges and Concerns
Burial fees in KMC-run cemeteries are officially set at Rs9,300. However, due to limited space, actual costs can reach Rs150,000, signaling exploitation. Additionally, officials have raised concerns about the growing influence of “mafias” within graveyards, leading to encroachment and illegal activities. The plan will be a great relief for the Karachiites.
Conclusion
The KMC’s plan to expand graveyard space represents a critical step in addressing Karachi’s growing burial crisis. The establishment of new graveyards, if successful, will provide essential relief for the city’s residents and help to combat the challenges facing existing burial grounds.