Addressing severe public inconvenience, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) today commenced a Rs 200 million development project to reconstruct Sehba Akhtar Road, a key artery in Gulshan-e-Iqbal that has not been repaired in 22 years.
Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, who laid the foundation stone for the initiative, stated that the rehabilitation was launched on a priority basis to alleviate the difficulties faced by thousands of daily commuters. He was accompanied by Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad and other officials.
The scope of the project includes the rebuilding of the approximately 1.8-kilometre-long road, which varies in width from 44 to 46 feet, and a comprehensive improvement of the underlying sewerage system.
Mayor Wahab explained that the road”s condition had deteriorated significantly, with traffic pressure intensifying due to ongoing construction work on the nearby University Road, causing major disruptions for the public.
He confirmed that the scheme aims to resolve long-standing issues for residents of Gulshan-e-Iqbal 13-D, Gulshan Chowrangi, Hassan Square, and surrounding localities. The Mayor emphasised that the KMC is committed to serving all citizens without discrimination, irrespective of the area”s political representation at provincial or national levels.
Further infrastructure upgrades were announced, including the reconstruction of the corridor from Shahrah-e-Shah Suleman Road to Hassan Square and Gulshan Chowrangi, where sewerage lines will also be replaced to provide a durable solution for residents.
The Mayor noted that this work is part of a broader city-wide development plan guided by the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He declared that the KMC will spend Rs 68 billion on various development projects across the city this year.
“In the past, only promises were made, but now practical work is being carried out,” Wahab remarked, adding that some elements focus on criticism and divisive politics rather than solving public issues.
He outlined future initiatives intended to ease commuting difficulties, including projects on Rashid Minhas Road, Dalmia, the Drigh Road to Nagan Chowrangi corridor, and a New Karachi corridor. The reconstruction of Shahrah-e-Shah Suleman Road, which connects Karsaz to the SITE Industrial Area, is also planned to significantly reduce traffic problems.
Criticising previous administrations, the Mayor alleged they had focused on commercialisation rather than improving public facilities, citing the KMC Sports Complex being misused for private events as an example of past mismanagement.
In response to critics questioning funding priorities, he highlighted that the current administration has increased the funds for Union Council chairmen from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1.3 million to ensure civic issues are resolved at the grassroots level.
Mayor Wahab also announced that Spencer Eye Hospital in Lyari will be made functional from April 6 to provide essential treatment facilities to patients, stressing that sincere intent is more crucial than resources in delivering public service.