KARACHI: Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG) Zubair Motiwala and President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Muhammad Rehan Hanif have called for the intervention of the Chief Minister of Sindh, Murad Ali Shah, over concerns regarding the non-restoration of roads in Karachi following pipeline works by the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). They emphasized the severe difficulties faced by citizens and businesses due to the extensive road excavations carried out by the SSGC for pipeline modernization, which have left many roads in a damaged state.
According to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Motiwala and Hanif have written to the Chief Minister, highlighting that roads in several commercial, industrial, and residential areas have been excavated for months for pipeline-related works without subsequent reconstruction. This has led to increased traffic congestion, damage to vehicles, and safety risks for commuters and pedestrians, particularly affecting commercial and industrial zones vital to Karachi's economy.
The business community leaders questioned the regulatory framework and institutional responsibilities, stressing the need for a comprehensive arrangement for immediate road restoration post-excavation. They urged the Government of Sindh to clarify the terms under which SSGC operates and to establish accountability for road restoration. They also highlighted issues regarding road-cutting and restoration charges collected from utility companies, questioning the delay in completing restoration despite these collections.
Motiwala and Hanif called for improved coordination among SSGC, local authorities, and municipal agencies to ensure that infrastructure projects are completed efficiently while safeguarding public convenience and road safety. They requested a review of existing policies governing utility excavation activities and urged immediate road restoration where pipeline works are complete, emphasizing the need for a transparent accountability mechanism.
Expressing confidence in Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, they urged prompt action to address the issue, protect the interests of Karachi's citizens and businesses, and ensure organized and accountable execution of essential infrastructure projects.