Mayor Announces Rs9.5 Billion Karachi Development Plan
Karachi’s Mayor Murtaza Wahab has unveiled a substantial Rs9.5 billion development plan, signaling a significant push by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). This ambitious initiative aims to improve infrastructure across the city, especially in areas currently under the administration of rival town chairmen from the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI).
Ambitious Infrastructure Overhaul
The primary focus of this plan involves the rehabilitation of more than 26 major streets within the Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs). This project, financed by the Sindh government through its Special Karachi Development Grant (SKDG), aims to address the persistent issues of deteriorating infrastructure that have drawn complaints from city residents. SindhNews.com reports that the KMC has taken the initiative to improve the city.
Mayor Wahab, during a Wednesday meeting attended by key officials including Local Government Secretary Waseem Shamshad and Municipal Commissioner Afzal Zaidi, outlined the scope of the project. The meeting detailed an “extensive plan” to rebuild and repair critical roadways across different districts. This marks a concerted effort to modernize Karachi’s infrastructure and tackle long-standing urban challenges through strategic, long-term planning.
Targeted Road Rehabilitation
The KMC’s development package allocates approximately Rs5.5 billion for road rehabilitation. This portion of the project targets heavily used routes and those crucial for daily commutes but suffering from wear and insufficient upkeep. The plan also includes significant funding for other essential services. An additional Rs1 billion has been proposed for sewerage infrastructure improvements, and another Rs2 billion is earmarked for citywide street-light rehabilitation and enhancement.
The identified roads for rehabilitation include Hashim Raza Road and Al-Amna Avenue in the Central district, as well as Orangi Link Road and Gulshan-i-Ghazi in the West district. In the East district, work will cover Sehba Akhtar Road and Sardar Usman Ali Sabri Road. In the South district, Garden Road and adjoining streets are also on the list. Jinnah Square Road in the Korangi district and Malir Khokarpar Road in the Malir district are also included.
The Impact on Karachi’s Residents
The comprehensive development package is projected to bring considerable benefits to Karachi residents. Mayor Wahab emphasized that this initiative would “significantly ease travel for millions of residents, reduce congestion, and enhance safety and accessibility across all towns of the city.” This project is expected to markedly improve the quality of life for Karachi’s citizens.
Conclusion
With an investment of over Rs9 billion, the KMC’s development plan reflects a strong commitment to enhancing Karachi’s infrastructure. This focused approach to urban development aims to improve the city’s accessibility, safety, and overall quality of life. The implementation of this initiative underscores the KMC’s dedication to visible, impactful, and equitable development across the city.