Karachi, Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar is spearheading an ambitious urban rejuvenation project aimed at transforming the lives of residents in Karachi’s old and dilapidated Martin, Clayton, and Jahangir quarters. The project envisions constructing modern residential towers in these areas, enhancing the overall lifestyle and appearance of the neighborhoods.

According to Sindh Chief Minister House, the Chief Minister presided over a meeting attended by Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, Chairman P&D Shakil Manejo, and other high-ranking officials. The plan involves utilizing empty plots and spaces within the Martin, Clayton, and Jahangir quarter premises for the construction of residential and commercial towers, ensuring that the current residents are not displaced.

Chairman P&D Shakil Mangejo briefed the Chief Minister on the background of these quarters, which occupy 240 acres of land in the East and Central districts of Karachi and are currently owned by the federal government. However, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab noted that surrounding katchiabadies are owned by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), indicating complex land ownership dynamics.

The meeting discussed the poor maintenance of these quarters since the shifting of Pakistan’s capital in 1958, leading to unauthorized encroachments and degradation of living conditions. Mangejo highlighted that initial surveys showed 81 acres of land in Martin and Jail road quarters, with Clayton and Jahangir quarters covering 68 acres, and additional areas in Jahangir Road and Pakistan Quarters.

Chief Minister Baqar expressed his vision to replace old, unsafe quarters with modern towers, alongside improvements in public spaces and infrastructure. He referenced Istanbul’s Fikirtepe residential area’s redevelopment as a potential model for Karachi. The CM directed the P&D department to study various aspects of urban planning, such as inclusive planning, infrastructure upgrades, and green building practices.

The Chief Minister announced plans to discuss land ownership issues with the federal government and instructed the P&D department and KMC to develop a comprehensive plan for the project. He suggested exploring public-private partnerships (PPP) and other options for the project’s implementation.