By Aziz Khatri
KARACHI: Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab has said that 2026 will be a year of development and improvement for Karachi, emphasizing that the city’s challenges are best addressed through work rather than political rhetoric.
Speaking during the inauguration of the construction and rehabilitation of Muhammad Shah Street in the Old City area, the Mayor highlighted ongoing development projects across Karachi. “I do not believe in holding daily press conferences driven by prejudice and hatred. Public service should be the measure of politics,” he said.
He outlined financial allocations for the city, noting that Rs14 billion have been released to towns, with an additional Rs27 billion received under the OZT system and Rs6 billion obtained through the click system. Union Council funding has risen from Rs500,000 to Rs1.2 million, while towns currently hold Rs700 million for road works alone. Overall, KMC is spending Rs30 billion this year on improving city infrastructure.
Mayor Wahab confirmed that the old Hub Canal project will be completed by 31 December, providing an additional 20 million gallons of water to Karachi. Sewage treatment plants are also being made fully operational, while marine and coastal protection measures are being implemented.
He spoke about the Old City, describing it as a historic area neglected for decades. Streets such as Bartan Bazaar, Gali Joria Bazaar, and Khajoor Bazaar had deteriorated due to outdated sewerage and poor drainage. “More than 200,000 square feet of pavers have been laid, and sewerage lines of various sizes have been installed. Streets are now cleaner, roads improved, and the environment pleasant for residents and visitors alike,” he said.
The Mayor stressed that development is for the public, not any political party. Citizens and traders have pledged to protect the improvements and prevent future damage. Additional projects, including the extension of Azeem Pura Road and internal street improvements in Lyari Town at a cost of Rs5 billion, are underway, with KMC engineers given a 100-day target to complete work on time. Restoration of historic markets, including Hasan Ali Hothi Market and Empress Market, is ongoing and expected to be completed by early 2026.
Mayor Wahab emphasized transparency in infrastructure work, including the installation of streetlights and manhole covers, and urged citizens to report theft or damage via the helpline. He also extended greetings to the public on Sindhi Culture Day, describing Sindh as a land of peace, love, and Sufism, and called on all residents to take pride in their cultural heritage.
