Karachi, Under the leadership of Caretaker Chief Minister Sindh, Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqer, Karachi is set to undergo significant urban development and infrastructure improvements. These include constructing a new residential and commercial building at Liaquatabad Supermarket and initiatives to enhance the city’s overall beauty and functionality.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the Chief Minister presided over a follow-up meeting reviewing ongoing development works in the city. It was decided to replace the old Liaquatabad Supermarket with a high-rise building, considering the rights of existing tenants, similar to previous projects in Pakistan, Clayton, and Jahangir Quarters. The new building will feature offices, shops, and residential apartments, with a focus on catering to government and private offices and providing residential flats for the public.
In a significant move, the Chief Minister also addressed the illegal construction on Shahrah Faisal. The building, located opposite Star Gate, was being constructed on a plot allotted by the KMC slum department. The Chief Minister applauded the cancellation of this plot’s allotment and the partial demolition by the Sindh Building Control Authority, emphasizing the need to preserve the aesthetic of Shahrah Faisal.
The beautification of Shahrah Faisal is underway, involving the horticulture department for planting trees and other plants. The Chief Minister also directed improvements in street lighting and regular maintenance to enhance the city’s beauty, along with better sanitation, garbage collection, and road washing by the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board.
Another key focus was the encroachment issue on major roads and parks. The Chief Minister directed the provision of funds to towns for encroachment removal, plantation, and improvement of roads, footpaths, and drainage systems. Additionally, he approved a Rs 50 million grant to the Traffic Engineering Bureau, KDA, for upgrading the signal system and network.
The meeting also addressed the conditions of various drains, forming a committee under Local Government Minister Mubeen Jumani for a comprehensive cleaning plan. The condition of the Hub Canal, crucial for drinking water supply, was discussed, with directives for a prompt project proposal.
Healthcare infrastructure was another major agenda item. The Chief Minister expressed concerns over the dilapidated condition of Lyari General Hospital and directed immediate action for its reconstruction or renovation. He also reviewed maintenance and renovation works at Civil Hospital Karachi and directed the full operationalization of Spencer Eye Hospital.
In terms of civic infrastructure, directives were given for the renovation of the Civic Centre and the development of urban forests to improve the city’s environment. The Chief Minister also called for a proposal to ban polythene bags to prevent drain clogging.
These comprehensive plans highlight Karachi’s commitment to improving urban living standards, infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and environmental sustainability.