As Karachi recovers from a series of heavy monsoon rains, City Mayor Murtaza Wahab has announced that road repair and construction work will commence immediately once the current spell of rains subsides. Recognizing the widespread road damage caused by accumulated rainwater, the Mayor has directed the Engineering Department to prioritize and expedite repair efforts to restore the city’s infrastructure.
In a meeting held at the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) head office on Sunday, Mayor Wahab emphasized the urgency of these repairs and outlined plans to improve the city’s recreational facilities. The meeting, attended by key officials including Municipal Commissioner Afzal Zaidi, Director General of the Engineering Department Azhar Ali Shah, and Director General Parks Junaid Ullah Khan, focused on evaluating ongoing projects and strategizing for future development.
Mayor Wahab acknowledged the common occurrence of road damage during the monsoon season and assured citizens that repairs would be initiated without delay. "The current state of our roads demands immediate attention,” he stated, "and our Engineering Department is fully prepared to start work as soon as the rains let up.” He also instructed the filling of potholes caused by rainwater, with a focus on making roads motorable in the first phase of repairs.
The Mayor reiterated the importance of maintaining and enhancing Karachi’s infrastructure, stressing that no excuse, including a lack of authority or funds, would hinder their efforts. "We are committed to delivering results and ensuring that our roads are safe and accessible for all citizens,” Wahab affirmed.
Beyond road repairs, Mayor Wahab highlighted the need for modernizing KMC parks to enhance facilities and provide better recreational opportunities for Karachi’s residents. He directed the Parks Department to allocate spaces within parks for urban forestry, aiming to increase the city’s tree cover. "Expanding our green spaces is crucial for improving Karachi’s climate and providing a healthier environment for our citizens,” the Mayor noted.
Wahab’s push for urban forestry aligns with broader efforts to combat the adverse effects of climate change in Karachi, a city that has faced increasing temperatures and environmental challenges in recent years. By integrating more trees and green spaces, the city hopes to create a more livable and sustainable urban environment.
During the meeting, the Mayor reviewed the progress of ongoing projects under the Annual Development Program (ADP) and set a firm deadline of December 31 for their completion. He stressed the need to accelerate the pace of incomplete projects and ensure that all planned developments are finalized within the stipulated time.
Mayor Wahab also took the opportunity to praise the efforts of KMC, the water corporation, and other municipal bodies in successfully draining rainwater from the city’s roads and underpasses. He noted that 106 roads under KMC’s jurisdiction are currently clear, and traffic is flowing smoothly, a marked improvement from previous years.
Following the meeting, Mayor Wahab conducted visits to various areas of the city to assess the post-rain conditions firsthand. He reported that all major stormwater drains are functioning without obstruction, and water drainage has been effectively managed. The Mayor issued on-the-spot instructions during his inspections, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address any issues.
Wahab also called on town administrations to expedite the removal of standing water from internal roads and streets, underscoring the shared responsibility in maintaining the city’s infrastructure. He urged all municipal officers and staff to work tirelessly to improve road conditions and provide immediate relief to Karachi’s residents.
