Karachi mayor seeks Rs100 billion federal aid for city’s development
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has formally requested Rs100 billion in federal funding for the city’s development, outlining urgent infrastructure and urban renewal projects.
In a letter addressed to Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, the mayor detailed the financial requirements for key initiatives aimed at improving Karachi’s roads, public services, and environmental restoration.
The letter states that Rs35 billion is needed for road repairs leading to Karachi Port and the construction of an expressway connecting Shahrah-e-Bhutto with the National Highway and Port Qasim.
The mayor also highlighted the necessity of expanding the Northern Bypass and repairing major thoroughfares to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity.
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Among the proposed projects is the establishment of a drug rehabilitation centre in Gutter Baghicha, aimed at addressing the growing issue of substance abuse.
Karachi Metropolitan University is also set for expansion, with plans to construct a new administration and academic block.
Additionally, the mayor has called for Rs5 billion to be allocated for the extension of Safari Park to enhance recreational facilities for residents.
In his letter, Murtaza Wahab emphasised the need for Rs2 billion to develop a 200-acre Green Zone in Gutter Baghicha as part of Karachi’s environmental restoration efforts.
He also requested Rs5 billion for the rehabilitation of the city’s coastal areas, which have suffered from neglect and pollution.
Furthermore, Rs5 billion has been proposed for cleaning and restoring Karachi Harbour, a crucial waterway for trade and commerce.
The mayor’s development agenda also includes the establishment of a modern slaughterhouse and meat processing zone at the Northern Bypass to regulate the city’s meat supply industry.
Another major project involves setting up a water recycling plant at Korangi Creek, which requires an estimated Rs5 billion.
Mayor Wahab has urged the federal government to support these initiatives, citing the need for collaborative efforts to uplift Karachi’s urban landscape.
He also suggested utilising federal-owned land in Old City Area to construct parking plazas on I.I. Chundrigar Road and M.A. Jinnah Road to alleviate parking congestion.
Additionally, he drew attention to the deteriorating condition of Pakistan Quarters, Martin Quarters, and Jamshed Quarters, calling for immediate improvements.
The letter underscores the importance of federal assistance in executing these projects, stating that Karachi’s economic and infrastructural progress depends on significant investment.
The mayor has urged the Sindh governor and federal authorities to prioritise the city’s needs and ensure financial backing for these crucial initiatives.
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