Karachi, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab emphasized the critical need for international collaboration to assist countries grappling with the impacts of climate change, in a statement made at the UK Pavilion Mayors Conference in Dubai. He highlighted Karachi’s proactive measures in rebuilding and enhancing infrastructure post natural disasters and in combating climate change effects.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Wahab, speaking at the conference, detailed the various challenges faced by the Sindh province, particularly Karachi, and the ongoing efforts to resolve them. He noted that significant steps are being taken to improve Karachi’s road network, particularly in industrial zones and commercial centers, to stimulate economic activities. Addressing environmental concerns, Mayor Wahab discussed the potential of establishing solar and wind farms in Karachi with financial support to provide affordable and clean energy to the populace.

The Mayor underscored the necessity of upgrading Karachi’s infrastructure, including roads, highways, and particularly the water supply and drainage systems. These developments are geared towards modernizing the city’s infrastructure with the construction and expansion of storm drains, parks, and playgrounds. He also recounted the hardships faced by Karachi’s residents during the 2022 flood and the 2015 heatwave, attributing these events to the broader challenges posed by climate change. Mayor Wahab highlighted Karachi’s response to these challenges through plantation drives, the creation of artificial forests, and extensive afforestation efforts in the city’s beach park. These initiatives aim to combat climate change’s effects and improve Karachi’s weather conditions through positive environmental actions.

During the conference, mayors from various cities shared their insights and underscored the importance of a unified strategy to address the challenges posed by climate change.