The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation today launched a Rs 900 million project to convert street lights on major city arteries to solar power, an initiative officials state will save approximately Rs 25 million annually in electricity costs and resolve persistent lighting failures caused by load-shedding.
Mayor Murtaza Wahab inaugurated the new solar-powered street lights on Shahrah-e-Faisal, one of three main thoroughfares, including Shahrah-e-Iran, included in the project”s initial phase. He confirmed the project includes a five-year warranty, with the installing company responsible for all operations and maintenance.
Speaking at the event, Mayor Wahab designated 2026 as the year of development, asserting that his administration would fulfil all election promises. He pointed to several ongoing public welfare projects, including rapid progress on Shahrah-e-Bhutto and the Murghi Khana Bridge, and announced the imminent opening of the Shahrah-e-Bhutto section from Qayyumabad to Kathore.
The mayor reported that improvement works are also underway at Pakistan Chowk, Shahrah-e-Liaquat, and Sohrab Goth, with Bahadurabad Road already completed. He confirmed that the Kareemabad Underpass project is in progress and mentioned plans to extend the solarisation initiative to include Sir Shah Suleman Road and Mai Kolachi Road.
Addressing environmental topics, the mayor defended the removal of Conocarpus trees, describing them as unsuitable for the local infrastructure and climate, and emphasised the need for planting indigenous species. He also revealed a new initiative to install durable manhole covers made from fibre and recycled waste, with trials underway and funds disbursed to Union Councils for wider implementation.
Mayor Wahab also commented on the political climate, stating that problems are solved through practical work, not press conferences, protests, and negative politics. He challenged political opponents, specifically naming Jamaat-e-Islami, to compete through service delivery rather than “conspiracies and hypocrisy, describing his public office as a crown of thorns.
He concluded by affirming that his administration, guided by the Pakistan Peoples Party’s vision, is focused on action over slogans and is committed to serving all residents of the city without discrimination. The mayor remarked that development requires cooperation from all stakeholders and a focus on practical work for the betterment of the city.