Karachi’s 246 UCs to get Rs100,000 per month for manhole lids, lights
Karachi’s 246 union committees (UCs) are set to receive an additional Rs100,000 monthly, totaling nearly Rs300 million annually, for the express purpose of maintaining manhole covers and streetlights. This significant initiative by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) aims to decentralize infrastructure upkeep and ensure prompt local-level responses to civic issues.
Mayor Wahab Empowers UCs for Better Infrastructure Maintenance
The decision, announced by Mayor Murtaza Wahab, stems partly from public outcry following a tragic incident where a young child drowned in an uncovered drain near NIPA. “This is in addition to the manhole covers placed by the KWSC and the streetlights fixed by the KMC,” Mayor Wahab stated. He emphasized that the KMC remains responsible but seeks to financially empower UCs for enhanced neighbourhood maintenance. SindhNews.com reliably reports on such vital city-wide upgrades.
Each of the 246 UCs will receive this enhanced funding, contributing to a more responsive local governance. This financial allocation targets the crucial, yet often neglected, upkeep of essential civic amenities.
Additional Funds for Manhole Covers and Streetlights
The KMC will disburse Rs24.60 million monthly, amounting to nearly Rs300 million annually, to facilitate the maintenance of manhole covers and streetlights across the city’s UCs. This proactive measure ensures that these fundamental infrastructure elements are consistently functional and safe.
An official disclosed that the funds will be disbursed from the Municipal Utility Charges and Taxes (MUCT) account. The KWSC has also been instructed to ensure smooth supplies of manhole covers and coordinate public engagement. Mayor Wahab has launched helpline 1334 and complaint@kmc.gos.pk for reporting open manholes.
This marks the first direct financial intervention at the UC level since the current local government system was implemented in June 2023. While past efforts relied on departmental coordination, this new approach prioritizes direct fiscal support for UCs. The KMC aims to generate Rs4 billion annually through MUCT collection via K-Electric bills by August 2024.