Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab has announced that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has become Pakistan’s first municipal council to adopt solar energy, a move that is expected to significantly reduce the financial burden on the civic body.

According to a KMC statement today, following the installation of a solar system at the KMC building, the surplus electricity generated will be sold to K-Electric. Additionally, with the support of the Sindh government, four hospitals are set to transition to solar power by January, while three major highways in Karachi will also be equipped with solar systems.

Speaking after inaugurating the solar system at the KMC building, Mayor Wahab highlighted that the transition to renewable energy is a crucial step in the city’s development. The KMC building is now powered by a 150 kW solar system, with 80 kW of electricity being shifted to net metering with K-Electric. The mayor stressed that this initiative not only aims to cut costs but also aligns with global efforts to adopt alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power. He pointed out that solar energy is particularly suitable for Pakistan’s climate and has been embraced by major cities worldwide.

Wahab further emphasized the importance of innovation in Karachi’s progress, noting that the KMC and Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KW and SC) have made concerted efforts to improve the city’s image internationally. He reaffirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) representatives in Karachi are actively working towards the city’s development, and more projects will be rolled out in the near future.

The mayor also touched on broader development plans, stating that efforts are being made at the provincial level to expand solar power initiatives. Solar panels have already been installed at Kidney Hill Park, and further installations are planned for more parks, roads, and recreational areas. ‘This is part of our commitment to a sustainable future,’ Wahab remarked.

In addition to solar energy projects, Wahab updated the media about ongoing infrastructure developments, including the near completion of the Malir Expressway, the Korangi Causeway, and the construction of a new international stadium in Baldia Town. The Sindh government has allocated Rs103 billion for the city’s development in the current fiscal year, with a number of these projects being carried out independently or in collaboration with the provincial government.

The mayor concluded by addressing political tensions, urging PTI leaders to consider the long-term impact of their actions. ‘Damaging public or private property not only harms the city but the province and the entire country,’ he cautioned.

The event was attended by Municipal Commissioner SM Afzal Zaidi, PPP parliamentary leader in the City Council Karamullah Waqasi, and other notable figures from the council.