Karachi’s Mayor, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, today strongly condemned a bomb blast at a mosque in Islamabad, calling for national unity against terrorism while speaking at a ceremony to launch a significant new infrastructure project in the city’s West District.
The Mayor laid the foundation for a new road and drainage system extending from Khawaja Ajmeer Nagri Chowrangi to Dedex Road in Manghopir. The project, with an estimated cost exceeding PKR 35 crore 83 lakh, is designed to improve traffic flow and resolve longstanding drainage issues for local residents.
The development includes the construction of an approximately 2-kilometre road, 9.9 metres in width, complete with footpaths. The initiative also involves a comprehensive overhaul of the area’s water management systems, including the installation of a new stormwater drain, repairs to a 48-inch diameter line, and the laying of a new water supply line.
Improvements to the sewerage system will see manholes raised and sewer lines winched to ensure more effective rainwater drainage, Mayor Wahab detailed during the ceremony.
Addressing the media, he noted that the specific area in Manghopir had never had a proper road constructed before, despite promises from various political parties over the years. He stated that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had solved a persistent problem for the area”s inhabitants.
The Mayor announced that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is spending PKR 4.6 billion on development across the city, with projects being carried out uniformly in all districts. He mentioned that the Sharae Faisal-Azeem Pura Bridge would be inaugurated soon and that the PPP is fulfilling the promises made by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
He highlighted several other ongoing municipal works, including the cleaning of the Hub Reservoir for the first time, the establishment of new pumping stations in Manghopir and Mominabad, and efforts to address water issues in Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Lyari, with a target for completion before Ramadan.
Contrasting his administration”s approach with that of predecessors, he remarked that while previous mayors often cited a lack of resources and powers, his team is ensuring work continues on key projects like Jehangir Road, Sharae Bhutto, and the Murghi Khana Bridge.
In response to the Gul Plaza fire, the Mayor announced that the KMC will provide 1,200 stalls at the Polo Ground Barah Dari for the affected shopkeepers, assuring traders of all possible support during Ramadan.
Regarding the Islamabad blast, he expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He called the targeting of a place of worship during Friday prayers “extremely regrettable and condemnable,” stating that such attacks are against all humanitarian and social values and a moment of reflection for the nation.
The foundation-laying ceremony was also attended by PPP Karachi General Secretary Rauf Nagori, Deputy Parliamentary Leader Dil Muhammad, Juman Darwan, other elected officials, and a large gathering of local citizens.