Karachi: Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab emphasized the importance of city ownership and acknowledged the business community’s contributions during his address to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI). He announced the allocation of 103 billion rupees by the Sindh government for development projects, including the imminent inauguration of the first phase of the Malir Expressway and the launch of the Yellow Line Bus Transit project.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Wahab highlighted efforts to improve the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s (KMC) financial stability and municipal services by revising the collection method for municipal utility tax charges. This revision has led to a marked increase in revenue collection. He clarified that the municipal utility tax is not new but is intended to enhance municipal services.

Mayor Wahab also addressed Karachi’s longstanding water scarcity issue, announcing the construction of a new canal for an additional 50 million gallons per day from the Hub Dam and the repair of an existing canal. These efforts aim to supply an additional 100 million gallons of water per day by next year. Furthermore, computerized hydrants and a 54 MGD water treatment project are underway to improve water supply and treatment.

The Mayor reiterated KMC’s commitment to eliminating encroachments and collaborating with stakeholders for sustainable solutions. He stressed the need for substantial infrastructure investment, particularly in road development, and advocated for equitable distribution of natural resources, citing Sindh’s significant contribution to the country’s natural gas production.

During the event, KATI members engaged with Mayor Wahab in a question-and-answer session, after which he expressed optimism for their cooperation in the city’s development. The event concluded with KATI presenting a special shield to the Mayor.