Karachi: In a significant development push, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced the allocation of over PKR 200 billion for various development projects aimed at enhancing Karachi’s infrastructure and water supply. Key initiatives include the construction of the Malir Expressway and augmenting the city’s water supply by June 2025.
According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, the Chief Minister revealed these plans during his speech at their annual dinner, an event that gathered a notable assembly of business leaders, government officials, and industrialists. The Malir Expressway is set to link the city’s port to Jinnah International Airport, which is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and bolster logistics for local businesses.
Further addressing Karachi’s long-standing water issues, CM Shah detailed plans to channel 200 million gallons of water daily from Hub Dam to Karachi, a project poised to mitigate the severe water shortages plaguing the city.
The event also highlighted broader concerns regarding Sindh’s treatment by the federal government. CM Shah criticized the federal government for its alleged neglect, especially highlighting the incomplete motorway between Karachi and Sukkur and the slow progress on the crucial K4 water project. He also mentioned a significant sum of PKR 172 billion owed in infrastructure cess, currently stalled due to legal hurdles and awaiting a Supreme Court decision.
Amidst these challenges, CM Shah underscored the Sindh government’s proactive approach to development, mentioning an upcoming visit by President Asif Ali Zardari to China aimed at securing additional investments for the region.
Further contributions to the discussion came from KATI Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer, who emphasized the necessity of economic stabilization measures beyond the recent IMF loan, which he described as a temporary solution. He also advocated for significant reforms in the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) system.
Johar Qandhari, President of KATI, shared insights into the operational challenges faced by Karachi’s industrial sector, particularly in terms of the high costs of electricity and water, which significantly affect production costs and economic viability.
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya stressed the critical economic role Karachi plays nationally, advocating for targeted governmental actions to reduce production costs and improve conditions for exporters.
The significant investment in Korangi’s infrastructure through KITE Limited, highlighted by CEO Zahid Saeed, was cited as a key example of effective public-private partnership initiatives, underlining the importance of such collaborations in driving regional development.