KARACHI: The Mayor of Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, inaugurated the “Lungs of Karachi” urban forest project, aiming to enhance green spaces and mitigate pollution in the city. The initiative, covering five acres at Bagh Karachi, has seen the planting of over 4,500 native trees. This project is part of a broader effort to make Karachi greener and more environmentally friendly.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the urban forest is a significant environmental project featuring indigenous trees such as Kikar, Neem, and Mulberry. Two water-storage reservoirs have been constructed for irrigation, and walking and jogging tracks have been developed for public use. Mayor Wahab emphasized the project’s role in protecting government land from encroachments and providing recreational opportunities. The project was completed in 43 days, with plans to expand it by an additional 10 acres. Philanthropists and community groups have pledged support for further development. The Mayor stressed the importance of collective action in maintaining and expanding green spaces across Karachi.