Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has said he will strongly contest a notice issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) regarding alleged “mega corruption” in development projects of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC).
He described the allegations as baseless and said he would submit a detailed reply to the accountability watchdog.
Speaking to local media, the mayor confirmed that he had received the NAB notice, stating that all required records and details would be provided to the bureau but stressed that there was no truth in the allegations mentioned in the notice.
Murtaza Wahab said that after many years, large-scale development work had finally started in Karachi. He questioned why such initiatives were not being appreciated and instead were being subjected to scrutiny.
Visit Times of Karachi website for the latest news-related content
He added that he regularly announces billion-rupee development projects for the city’s infrastructure, a notice was sent instead of welcoming these initiatives.
“Those who work are questioned, while those who do nothing are never held accountable,” the mayor said.
He maintained that his intentions were clear and that all projects were being carried out transparently.
According to NAB Karachi, the bureau has sought complete details of all KMC development projects carried out between 2020 and 2025.
READ: Mayor Karachi announces new inauguration date for Karimabad Underpass
NAB said the inquiry was launched after receiving a complaint alleging corruption in both completed and ongoing projects during this five-year period.
Earlier in the day, Mayor Wahab addressed a separate event where he spoke about future development plans.
He said that 2026 would be the year of implementation of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP’s) manifesto in Karachi. He announced that KMC would spend Rs700 million on development works in the Old City area.
The mayor also said that the restoration of the historic Lea Market would be completed within the next three months. He added that work on the augmentation of the K-IV water supply project had begun and would help resolve Karachi’s long-standing water shortage.
Follow the Times of Karachi channel on WhatsApp
“We are accused and even threatened daily because of development works,” Wahab said. He pointed out that water theft remained a serious issue in the city, with illegal hydrants operating in various areas.
He said that a tribunal had been formed to take action against illegal water connections. “We will take strict action against those involved in water theft,” he added.
The mayor also criticised town administrations, saying they collect taxes but still complain about a lack of funds. He claimed that KMC was not facing any financial shortage and was committed to continuing development projects despite pressure and criticism.
The NAB inquiry and the mayor’s response are expected to keep Karachi’s political and administrative situation in focus in the coming days.
