Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Tuesday called for allocation of Rs100 billion development grant in the upcoming budget for Pakistan’s commercial and financial hub Karachi.
He emphasized the remarkable waste management operation during Eid-ul-Adha, where 146,801 tons of waste were cleared in three days, underscoring the city’s urgent need for federal and provincial support.
Speaking at a press conference at the KMC head office, Mayor Wahab praised the tireless efforts of sanitary staff and officials who worked relentlessly under extreme heat. The operation included setting up 96 collection points across 25 towns and seven districts, with a 24-hour helpline managing 3,699 complaints, 97.4% of which were promptly resolved.
Wahab highlighted the city’s unique challenges, stressing the need for genuine empowerment and support from political parties, including MQM and Jamaat-e-Islami, to ensure Karachi receives its fair share from the Parliament. The mayor invited political figures to collaborate constructively rather than engage in divisive rhetoric, urging them to focus on the city’s progress.
In a bid to end the “politics of division,” Wahab referenced past issues of “China cutting” and “road cutting,” advocating for a unified approach to Karachi’s development. He announced the commencement of drain cleaning operations from June 20, highlighting proactive measures to maintain the city’s cleanliness.
The mayor also addressed the crackdown on the “charbi mafia” with the Karachi Police, leading to significant arrests. He acknowledged improvements in waste management compared to previous years, particularly in problematic areas like Lyari and New Karachi.
Emphasizing the city’s needs, Wahab called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to facilitate Karachi’s development, with the hope that Mustafa Kamal and PPP would champion the cause in the cabinet and National Assembly.
Wahab underscored the importance of continued diligence from waste management staff and highlighted ongoing development schemes worth Rs. 37 billion submitted to the Sindh government. He concluded by stressing the importance of unity and action over divisive debates, envisioning a future where Karachi’s infrastructure and services reflect its status as a major urban center.