City Mayor Murtaza Wahab has inaugurated the Mangrove Biodiversity Park at Korangi Creek - a project that marks the establishment of the country’s first floating park dedicated to mangroves.
Developed in collaboration with the Sindh Forest Department, the park will promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Friday, the mayor termed the project a 'significant step' towards the preservation of mangrove forests and raising public awareness on environmental sustainability. He praised the involvement of private stakeholders, particularly from the real estate sector, in environmental initiatives, describing it as a positive sign for future generations.
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“I brought my son here today so he can learn the importance of mangroves and environmental protection from a young age,” said the mayor, urging civil society and the business community to extend their support in ensuring the park’s long-term success.
Wahab announced that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) would soon establish another mangrove park near the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) building. Praising the Sindh Forest Department’s achievement of setting a Guinness World Record by planting the highest number of mangrove trees, he called upon other authorities, including Port Qasim, Malir Development Authority, and KPT, to follow such initiatives within their jurisdictions.
“Whenever we try to take steps for Karachi’s betterment, obstacles are deliberately created. But we'll not back down from our mission,” the mayor said and invited civil society, media, and the corporate sector to share ideas and collaborate for a greener and a modern Karachi.
Referring to Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim - one of the city’s largest public parks - the mayor lamented its underutilisation. “It spans 130 acres but receives barely 130 visitors a day. Why do citizens prefer private clubs over public parks?” he questioned, stressing the need to enhance recreational facilities in public spaces to attract families and youth.
He stressed the importance of collective responsibility, stating, “We must go beyond criticism and focus on practical steps to improve our city. KMC stands ready to lead the way in environmental protection and urban development.”
Wahab also shared updates on key infrastructure projects aimed at tackling marine pollution. He revealed that two major sewage treatment plants are under construction - one at Haroonabad with a capacity of 100 million gallons per day (initially treating 35 MGD), and another at Mauripur (TP-3) with a capacity of 54 MGD. Both plants are expected to be operational by the end of the year.
“These plants will treat wastewater before releasing it into the sea, protecting marine life and reducing coastal pollution,” he said, adding that a fourth treatment facility is also being set up in Ibrahim Hyderi to serve residential and industrial areas of Korangi and surrounding localities.
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The mayor also announced the establishment of a second mangrove biodiversity park near Native Jetty in Keamari, calling it another step towards eco-friendly urban development. Criticising the unchecked felling of trees across the city, he said, “Cutting down trees for financial gain is highly deplorable. We must stop this practice.”
Responding to political criticism, Wahab said, “Those who jump from one press conference to another, blaming the mayor for stalled development, are only trying to conceal their own incompetence.” He urged the media not to amplify baseless accusations.
He warned, unless all stakeholders in Karachi align their efforts, the current 'tug-of-war' would continue to obstruct the city’s progress.
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