In a significant move to bolster infrastructure and environmental conservation in Sindh, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved several key projects during the 45th meeting of the Public Private Partnership Policy (PPPP) Board, held at CM House on Saturday. The meeting, attended by top provincial officials and ministers, focused on the expansion of green cover along the River Indus, the construction of a new expressway, and the acceleration of the Marble City project.
Highlighting the dire need for environmental protection, CM Murad Ali Shah announced the launch of a comprehensive afforestation campaign along the River Indus, covering a massive area of 34,995 acres across the districts of Jamshoro and Matiari. Additionally, a large-scale reforestation effort will be undertaken across 88,022 hectares in riverine areas of seven districts through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. This initiative aims to increase forest cover in Sindh, significantly improving the region’s resilience against climate change.
During the meeting, CM Shah cited a 2017 report by the World Wildlife Fund, which identified Pakistan as a forest-poor country, with less than 6% forest cover compared to the recommended 25%. He stressed that enhancing forest cover is crucial for mitigating the effects of climate change, referencing the devastating floods of 2022 as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
The Sindh Forest Department (SFD) was commended for its successful Delta Blue Carbon projects, which have improved mangrove cover and generated revenue through carbon credit mechanisms. The department has already identified 34,995 hectares in Matiari and Jamshoro districts for various purposes, including reforestation, access road construction, and settlement areas.
The Chief Minister directed the SFD to focus on planting native tree species such as Babul, Kandi, Bahan, and Neem, which are well-suited to the local environment.
In a bid to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in Karachi, CM Shah approved a proposal to construct a new expressway connecting the Karachi Port Terminal to Jam Sadiq Bridge, where the Malir Expressway begins. This expressway is expected to provide direct access for port traffic to the motorway, significantly reducing travel time and alleviating pressure on existing roads.
The Local Government Department has been tasked with finalizing the proposal, with the Chief Minister emphasizing that the project could either be executed under the PPP mode or funded directly by the provincial government.
Addressing the chronic traffic issues at the ICI bridge intersection, the CM approved the construction of the Maripur Expressway and ICI Interchange. This project, also under the PPP mode, will feature an eight-kilometer expressway with two lanes in each direction, a toll plaza, a weight bridge, and a one-kilometer interchange at the ICI bridge. The development is designed to facilitate the movement of heavy traffic from Karachi Port and provide faster, safer access to the Karachi Beach area.
Consultants have proposed additional infrastructure enhancements, including an interchange at the Lyari Flyover and Kakapir Flyover, as well as a proposed elevated U-turn.
In a further effort to combat climate change, CM Shah announced plans to restore riverine forests over 88,022 hectares in several districts, including Shaheed Benazirabad, Dadu, Naushehroferoze, Jamshoro, Khairpur, Larkana, and Sukkur. The Asian Development Bank may be engaged as a transition advisor to support the development of this ambitious project.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the delays in the Marble City project, CM Murad Shah called for an expedited process to launch this key industrial initiative. The Marble City, spanning 300 acres, is set to provide a secure, purpose-built industrial zone for the marble and granite sector, as well as allied industries. Located near the Northern Bypass, the site offers strategic access to major ports and motorways, making it an attractive destination for both local and international investors.
The CM was informed that a developer had been finalized for the project, and the work would be awarded shortly.
