KARACHI: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has unveiled development projects worth over Rs700 million aimed at restoring and improving the old city area, with Mayor Murtaza Wahab laying the foundation stone on Sunday. The initiative targets better roads, sewerage systems, and public facilities, with a completion deadline of June 30, 2026.
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The main project, costing Rs595.6 million, covers Jodia Bazaar, Bolton Market, Mithadar, and Kharadar. An additional Rs100 million has been allocated for restoring the historic Lea Market building, with completion expected in 90 days through cooperation with local traders. Extensive infrastructure work includes laying 400,000 square feet of paver blocks and constructing 850,000 square feet of roads.
A major focus will be the overhaul of sewerage systems. Over 2,600 feet of new lines will be laid in Jodia Bazaar, while Bolton Market will receive 4,000 feet of upgraded sewerage pipelines. Mithadar and Kharadar will see 4,050 and 4,100 feet of new sewerage lines respectively, alongside road and paver block construction.
Mayor Wahab emphasised 2026 as the year for completing development projects, prioritising modern urban facilities in the Old City. He stressed transparent execution and inter-departmental coordination to prevent newly constructed roads from being unnecessarily dug up.
Beyond the Old City, the mayor confirmed that new water lines in Lyari are expected by June, while the K-IV Augmentation project, with an investment of Rs71 billion, will expand water infrastructure. To address water theft, a Water Tribunal has been established, complete with a judge, to resolve long-standing disputes.
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The mayor also urged opposition parties, including Jamaat-i-Islami, to contribute to solving urban problems and questioned delays in town-level road construction despite allocated funds. The foundation stone ceremony was attended by City Council Parliamentary Leader Karamullah Waqasi, Deputy Parliamentary Leader Dil Muhammad, other officials, and local residents.