Wahab unveils multiple infrastructure projects across Karachi

Highlights strict auditing procedures, standards for municipal work, like road construction, installation of utilities

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, on Sunday, inaugurated a series of development projects in Block F, North Nazimabad, Central District, including construction of internal roads, a sewerage system, and a stormwater drain.

In a media briefing, the mayor recalled that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had promised development across Karachi once in power, emphasising that city funds would be spent responsibly and citizens’ sense of deprivation addressed. He stressed that projects are being completed rather than merely marked with plaques.

Highlighting areas under illegal occupation, Wahab criticised previous administrations, saying they had failed to improve citizens’ quality of life, despite controlling town administrations. He contrasted the PPP’s approach with that of its critics, asserting that his party focuses on tangible work rather than political point-scoring.

The mayor detailed several ongoing and upcoming projects:
• Internal roads in North Nazimabad have been completed at a cost of PKR 100 million.
• The four-lane bridge at Korangi Ibrahim Hyderi for access to Indus Hospital will be completed by the end of January 2025.
• An underpass connecting Shahrah-e-Bhutto will be finished by February and will accommodate heavy traffic, benefiting the wider city and country.
• A flyover at Murghi Khana is expected to be completed by the end of March.
• A four-lane flyover near the Export Processing Zone will open by mid-January.
• Construction at the Mena Bazaar underpass is ongoing and due for completion by January.

Wahab emphasised that these projects are not limited by funding and criticised previous administrations, including MQM, for failing to deliver development. He insisted that the PPP remains active across the city, addressing citizens’ problems, and attributed the leadership in resolving issues to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

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On governance and accountability, he highlighted strict auditing procedures and standards for municipal works, including road construction and installation of utilities, insisting on quality over shortcuts.

The mayor also called for a positive, competitive approach to development, urging critics to focus on delivering projects in their respective towns, while stating that the PPP would continue to prioritise Karachi’s infrastructure. He added that legal measures would be taken to enforce regulations on advertising boards, parking, and unauthorised structures, and reiterated his commitment to transparency and lawfulness.

Any illegal activity discovered during the audit of towns will be subject to legal action. Plans are also being drawn up for a development package for the city’s inner streets.