Karachi: Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab inaugurated a mangrove plantation and tree-planting campaign at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park, announcing that several major environmental projects are being implemented across the city to promote eco-friendly development. According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the Mayor highlighted the city’s commitment to enhancing its green spaces and addressing sewage treatment issues as part of broader environmental initiatives.
The event, attended by Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentary Leader in the City Council Karamullah Waqasi and other dignitaries, saw the Mayor announce the upcoming Biodiversity Park in the Keamari area, expected to open by November 2026. This project aims to educate school students on the significance of mangrove forests. The tree-planting campaign at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park will see over 5,000 mangrove saplings planted, further expanding the park’s green spaces.
Mayor Wahab noted the removal of the park’s boundary walls to enhance the public’s view of the natural surroundings. He expressed gratitude to Arif Khokhar and the Forest Department for their cooperation in expanding mangrove growth in Karachi, Thatta, and Sujawal, recalling past achievements in mangrove plantation records.
Addressing the city’s sewage challenges, the Mayor revealed that the Gutter Baghicha Haroonabad Sewage Treatment Plant is set to become operational by June 30, with a larger 100 MGD treatment facility scheduled for activation by December 31, 2026. The Mauripur Treatment Plant’s capacity to treat 54 MGD of wastewater was highlighted as a significant contribution to environmental improvements.
Plans to convert Aladdin Park into an urban forest and utilize 50 acres of KMC land for plantation drives were also unveiled. The Mayor warned of strict penalties for illegal tree cutting in the city.
On the K-IV water supply project, pending since 2016 and repeatedly inaugurated, Mayor Wahab criticized federal and local representatives for neglecting Karachi’s needs. He emphasized the allocation of Rs. 10 billion for the project in the current budget, stressing the city’s role as the country’s economic hub.
Regarding the political situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, the Mayor advocated for respecting the public mandate and allowing the winning party to govern, reiterating the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to principled politics and public service.
Mayor Wahab concluded by urging citizens to participate in environmental initiatives, plant trees, and support efforts to make Karachi greener for future generations.