Metropolis treated as priority of govt: CM

Murad Shah says 2026 to land Karachi among the world's most livable urban centres

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah extended heartfelt New Year greetings to the nation, expressing hope that 2026 will bring growth, prosperity, and new achievements for Sindh and the rest of the country.

Highlighting provincial achievements, Murad Ali Shah said the Sindh government reached several key milestones in 2025. In health, world-class medical centres were established, creating the largest health network in the world. For flood-affected families, 1.1 million homes were completed, a global record, and the government aims to build two million homes in 2026, setting a record that will remain unmatched.

In education, schools were renovated and teachers were recruited on merit to enhance academic standards. In agriculture, initiatives like HARI cards, subsidised wheat procurement, and fertiliser distribution provided crucial support to farmers.

Karachi received special attention, with water scarcity addressed as a top priority. The inauguration of Hub Canal and full budget allocation for the K-IV project reflect the government's commitment. The city also hosted a 39-day international cultural festival, presenting Karachi as a vibrant and lively city rather than one overshadowed by fear.

On the last day of 2025, the double-decker bus service was launched, while Yellow, Red, and Green Line Bus Rapid Transit projects are scheduled for completion in 2026. Major infrastructure initiatives, including Shahrah-e-Bhutto, are expected to transform Karachi's landscape, placing the city among the world's most livable urban centres.

Reflecting on 2025, he said Pakistan achieved significant military successes against much larger adversaries, demonstrating the nation's strength and defensive capabilities on the global stage. While 2025 was marked as a year of defensive superiority, he said 2026 would be a year of economic progress.