KARACHI:
DHA is one of Karachi’s most premium, high-value and predominantly residential areas. Despite its infrastructure shortcomings, its property values and standard of living are significantly higher than those of many comparable residential areas across Pakistan. On the other hand, Clifton has been the most sought-after area since 1947.
It would be a serious planning and environmental fiasco to permanently route large volumes of heavy container and port-related traffic through DHA and Clifton’s residential areas.
We support Karachi’s ports, trade and economic growth. However, we oppose routing permanent, 24-hour heavy-container traffic through DHA and Clifton’s residential areas when viable, dedicated freight alternatives can be properly evaluated. Residential areas should not become permanent freight corridors.
Routing large-scale industrial and commercial heavy traffic through established residential communities raises serious concerns relating to public health, safety, environmental quality, noise, air pollution, road safety, and the residents’ quality of life. Concerns regarding the proposed route have also reportedly been raised by officials of SEPA and the Sindh Social Welfare/Social Development authorities (SEPA report, pages 114–120).
The traffic is expected to increase dramatically. According to the SEPA assessment/report cited for the project, port-related heavy-vehicle traffic could rise to approximately 35,000 trailers per day by 2035, up from the current 12,000 plus. Such a volume cannot reasonably be imposed permanently on DHA and Clifton’s residential areas.
The Sindh High Court has already addressed the issue of heavy traffic. The directions of the Sindh High Court in CP No 1249 of 2017 regarding the planning and routing of heavy traffic in Karachi should be respected and implemented by all relevant civic, development and transport authorities. Any new corridor should be assessed in the context of those judicial directions and Karachi’s long-term master planning.
Our fundamental position: DHA and Clifton are residential communities — not permanent freight corridors to Karachi Port. Karachi’s growing port traffic requires a dedicated, sustainable freight solution, preferably a dedicated freight corridors like M-10 and cargo rail — not the permanent diversion of thousands of heavy container vehicles through dense premium residential areas. Development should serve the city without sacrificing the health, safety, environment and property rights of its residents.
Syed Jamal Macdi
Resident Committee of DHA/Clifton
