A delegation of the Baldiyati Reporters Association, led by its President Shahid Mustafa, called on Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab. During the meeting, a detailed discussion was held on the city’s ongoing development projects, the 2025-26 fiscal budget, and activities at the municipal level.
The Mayor informed the delegation that development projects worth Rs. 10 billion have been initiated in the current fiscal year, which include road construction, park restoration, drainage system improvements, and overall infrastructure enhancement. He further stated that all projects under the Rs. 18 billion Annual Development Programme (ADP) will be completed within the next two years.
He mentioned that the Korangi Causeway will be completed by October 15, while Shahrah-e-Bhutto is expected to be finished by December 30. Discussions were also held regarding the map of the Islamia College roundabout in Jinnah Town.
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab invited baldiyati reporters to visit and inspect the ongoing development works so that the public could be made aware of the ground realities. He emphasized the vital role of journalists in improving the city and how they serve as a bridge to convey accurate information to the public.
On the occasion, the Mayor Karachi also discussed the rehabilitation of key parks and cultural sites in the city, including Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, Safari Park, Garden, Frere Hall, and Sadequain Art Gallery. He added that CSS preparatory classes are being held at Frere Hall to provide better educational opportunities for the youth.
He announced that with the cooperation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), two modern parking plazas are being constructed to address the city’s parking challenges.
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab said that efforts are underway to restore the city’s historic buildings to their original glory. Following the successful restoration of Khaliq Dina Hall, Frere Hall, and Empress Market, the Denso Hall and Library have now also been renovated and opened to the public. He added that the KMC is in the process of digitizing all its assets to preserve the city’s heritage and educate the younger generation about Karachi’s glorious history.
He invited baldiyati reporters to visit the newly renovated Max Denso Hall and participate in the city’s development efforts. Expressing his vision, the Mayor said he hopes to see literary, cultural, and educational events held in this historic building-such as gatherings for Hamd and Naat recitals, Qawwali performances, intercollegiate debates, poetry readings, and short story sessions.
The Mayor Karachi affirmed that KMC’s budget for the restoration of Denso Hall was utilized transparently and that accountability and transparency remain a priority in all municipal operations.
Speaking about the charged parking system, he noted that efforts are being made to enhance its efficiency so that citizens can benefit from the facility.
In conclusion, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab appreciated the role of the media, acknowledging that journalists highlight public issues and help the government improve its policies. He said that media support is commendable and that the local government values this collaboration.