Karachi: Mayor Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, distributed Rs. 310 million in pension arrears to retired employees of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and announced the launch of the KMC Pension Card. The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Karachi Salman Abdullah Murad and other key officials. According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the mayor emphasized the city administration’s commitment to resolving long-standing issues faced by retired KMC employees, which had persisted for years due to previous government’s policies.

Upon taking office three years ago, the administration faced pension liabilities of approximately Rs. 11 billion. Through strategic financial planning, pension arrears for employees who retired between 2013 and 2019 are being addressed in phases. Currently, Rs. 6.2 billion in arrears remains, and efforts are ongoing to clear these liabilities. The mayor assured that all retired employees now receive their monthly pension promptly, with no outstanding liabilities against regular pension payments.

The event highlighted the resolution of a financial dispute with K-Electric, resulting in a transfer of approximately Rs. 1.4 billion to KMC’s account this month, aimed at benefiting employees and citizens. The mayor also discussed the implementation of a digital system to enhance transparency and accountability, revealing cases of dual employment and unauthorized pensions. The introduction of computerized KMC Pension Cards aims to streamline the pension disbursement process.

In addition to pension initiatives, the mayor outlined completed infrastructure projects, including bridges and underpasses across the city, with plans for further development. Rs. 200 million has been allocated for beautification projects around mosques. The mayor reiterated the administration’s focus on public service and urged political parties to engage constructively, reaffirming the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to serving Karachi’s residents.