In a major initiative to strengthen the city’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) will launch a comprehensive cleaning drive of all major storm-water drains (nallahs) across the city to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater and to minimize the risk of urban flooding.
According to KMC information today, the decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Mayor Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, to review the progress of ongoing development projects and municipal services. The meeting focused on monsoon preparedness, civic infrastructure, and measures to improve drainage systems throughout Karachi.
During the briefing, Municipal Commissioner KMC Abrar Jaffar informed the mayor that tenders for the desilting and cleaning of major drains had already been floated, with the bid opening scheduled for Monday. He further stated that, following the completion of the procurement process, work would commence immediately to ensure that all major drains are cleaned well before the arrival of monsoon rains.
He further informed the meeting that KMC had allocated Rs600 million for the citywide drain cleaning operation, reflecting the organization’s commitment to protecting citizens and public infrastructure during the rainy season.
Mr Wahab directed that a third-party consultant be engaged to independently monitor the cleaning process to ensure transparency, quality control, and timely completion of the work. He emphasized that strict oversight would be maintained throughout the operation to guarantee the effective utilization of public funds and adherence to the highest standards.
Financial Advisor KMC Gulzar Abro presented the district-wise allocation of funds for the drain cleaning campaign. According to the approved plan, Rs68 million have been allocated for District Central, Rs70 million for District West and Keamari, Rs56 million for District South-I, Rs65 million for District South-II following the bifurcation of District South, Rs73 million for District East, Rs70 million for District Korangi, and Rs58 million for District Malir. In addition, Rs74 million and Rs63 million have been earmarked for various collective drainage sites across the city requiring specialized attention.
Addressing the meeting, the mayor stated that KMC was simultaneously carrying out an extensive development programme across the city, making it essential that all drains remained fully functional to facilitate the uninterrupted flow of rainwater and to protect completed as well as ongoing infrastructure projects.
‘We performed well during last year’s monsoon, but this year we must deliver even better results. There will be no room for delays, negligence, or complacency. I do not want to hear any complaints regarding water accumulation or blocked drains. Every concerned department must ensure that the cleaning operation is completed efficiently and within the stipulated timeframe,’ Wahab said while directing the officials.
He reiterated that proactive planning and coordinated municipal efforts were essential to safeguard residents from rain-related inconveniences and reaffirmed KMC’s commitment to providing improved civic services and building a more resilient Karachi.
The meeting was attended by Municipal Commissioner KMC Abrar Jaffar, Financial Advisor Gulzar Abro, DG TS Tariq Mughal, Director Media Daniyal Siyal, and other senior officials of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation.