Karachi: In a move towards sustainable urban development, the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) has donated 5,000 trees for the plantation along the Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Expressway. The ceremonial event, attended by prominent city officials such as Mayor Murtaza Wahab and Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, underscores a broader commitment to environmental and infrastructural enhancement in Karachi.
Mayor Wahab highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to secure funds for industrial areas in the upcoming budget. He announced that a proposal for Rs. 7 billion has been sent to the Prime Minister to bolster infrastructure along the expressway. Additionally, he provided updates on significant projects, including the anticipated completion of the expressway's second phase by April 30 and the third phase by December 2025.
The Mayor also shared progress on other infrastructure initiatives, such as the Jam Sadiq flyover and the Korangi Crossing Bridge, both slated for completion in 2025. He emphasized efforts to make the expressway signal-free to ease traffic congestion and mentioned the Rs. 80 billion water projects underway, with federal assistance sought to expedite the K-4 project.
Commissioner Naqvi commended KATI's initiative, viewing it as a step towards sustainable urban infrastructure in Karachi. He noted that preparations for the Korangi Industrial Zone's uplift are advancing, with practical work expected to begin by mid-year.
KATI President Junaid Naqi expressed gratitude towards city officials and reaffirmed KATI's commitment to green development. He emphasized the necessity of environment-friendly projects for sustainable progress, highlighting the collaboration between public and private sectors in maintaining the plantations.
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya praised efforts to connect the Sindh government and the business community and advocated for solutions to Karachi's sewage and traffic issues. He called for a new authority to tackle water management challenges and urged public cooperation in resolving traffic congestion caused by encroachments.