By Aziz Khatri
KARACHI: Barrister Murtaza Wahab inaugurated the reconstructed Shadab Football Ground in Federal B Area of Gulberg Town, aiming to promote sports and recreational activities in the city. The ceremony was attended by City Council members, other elected representatives, and numerous citizens.
Addressing the occasion, Mayor Wahab said the project is part of a long-term effort to encourage youth participation in positive sports activities. He stated that the priority of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation is to restore playgrounds across the city to provide healthy recreational opportunities for residents.
The project, costing Rs224 million, covers 16,510 square meters, with 10,400 square meters dedicated to the football ground and 6,100 square meters allocated for a park and Eidgah area. The facility now features a pavilion, stores, toilets, a sewerage system, children’s play swings, green belts, and a walking track for women and senior citizens. Grass has been laid over 10,320 square meters, alongside the planting of 134 trees, 183 shrubs, and 70 ground-cover plants.
Mayor Wahab said the reconstruction protects the land from encroachments while allowing the local residential community, including women, children, and elderly people, to benefit from recreational facilities. Measures have also been introduced to prevent water wastage, with ablution water from the mosque redirected to a well for irrigation.
He highlighted other ongoing development initiatives, including the completion of Bhains Colony bridge, plans for the Azimpura Flyover, upcoming work on Jahangir Road, and the installation of fiber manhole covers, paver blocks, and solar street lights. Mayor Wahab stressed that collaborative efforts between provincial, federal, and city governments could more effectively address Karachi’s infrastructure challenges.
Discussions with Governor Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister of Sindh are underway to secure a special development package for the city from the Prime Minister.
