By our correspondent
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met World Bank Country Director Bolorma Amgaabazar to review the progress of Karachi’s water sector reform projects, with both sides agreeing on an accelerated roadmap to improve the city’s water supply and sewerage infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by the provincial minister for local government, Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, the chief secretary, the principal secretary and other senior officials.
During the meeting, participants reviewed the progress of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP) and discussed measures to expedite the implementation of the K-IV water supply project, a key initiative aimed at addressing Karachi’s growing water needs.
Officials agreed on a fast-track roadmap to improve water supply and drainage services across the city and directed the timely completion of ongoing projects.
The meeting was informed that Sui Southern Gas Company handed over the project site on 22 June 2026, while preparations are under way for a joint technical inspection of the 96-inch diameter pipeline. Officials said rehabilitation work at the NIPA Bridge and other technical activities is targeted for completion by 20 August.
A briefing also revealed that the procurement process for the K-IV expansion project had entered its final stages after the World Bank issued its no-objection certificate (NOC). Tender advertisements for the project are expected to be issued shortly.
Officials further said a pilot programme would be launched before large-scale installation work begins to ensure the project’s smooth implementation.
The meeting also reviewed the appointment of consultants and progress on technical studies related to the reforms.
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab informed the meeting that chlorination stations had been relocated to designated sites and commissioning work was under way. He said water quality testing is expected to begin from 30 July.
He also said compensation had been paid to 186 of the 203 people affected by the project.
Murad Ali Shah directed the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) to complete the commissioning and testing process without delay, stressing that the provision of safe drinking water remains one of the Sindh government’s highest priorities.
The chief minister instructed all relevant departments to strengthen coordination and warned that unnecessary delays in project implementation would not be tolerated.
He said modern water utilities rely on data, metering and technology, adding that Karachi requires a modern and efficient water management system to meet future demand.
World Bank Country Director Bolorma Amgaabazar reaffirmed the institution’s continued support for improving sustainable water supply and sewerage services in Karachi.
She said governance reforms, institutional strengthening, social safeguards and timely implementation would be essential to the long-term success of the projects.
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