KARACHI: Spokesperson for the Mayor of Karachi, Karamullah Waqasi, has issued a strong rebuttal against opposition parties, particularly MQM and Jamaat-e-Islami, in response to their criticism of municipal performance following recent heavy rains. He described the opposition’s allegations as “political point-scoring and negative propaganda.”

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Waqasi emphasized that despite the unusually intense rainfall, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and related institutions took immediate and effective measures to mitigate the impact. He noted that de-watering pumps and mobile pumping stations were promptly activated throughout the city, supported by heavy machinery and a workforce of over 300 personnel. The spokesperson highlighted the pre-rain cleaning of major drains and channels, which helped maintain traffic flow on key roads like Shahrah-e-Faisal and Lyari Expressway, contrasting the opposition’s claims.

Waqasi further outlined ongoing development efforts, citing projects worth over Rs. 75 billion aimed at improving Karachi’s infrastructure, along with a modernized solid waste management system employing thousands of sanitation workers. Criticizing the opposition, he pointed out that towns controlled by opposition parties received substantial funding but have shown insufficient progress in maintaining smaller drains.

In addressing safety concerns, he expressed condolences for lives lost in recent incidents but refuted the notion that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation should be blamed for electrocution accidents. He called for enhanced safety measures in collaboration with power utilities.

Highlighting the increased authority and resources under the Sindh Local Government Act, Waqasi stated that funds are being allocated without political bias, urging local administrations to uplift their performance. He reaffirmed the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to practical work over symbolic gestures, with the Mayor of Karachi actively overseeing field operations to advance the city’s modernization.

Waqasi concluded by advising the opposition to engage in constructive politics for the city’s improvement, reiterating that public service is their core mission and citizen welfare remains paramount.