Mayor Murtaza Wahab says the initiative aims to ensure smooth flow of rainwater, reduce the risk of urban flooding
KARACHI:
Mayor Murtaza Wahab has said that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has decided to launch a comprehensive cleaning and desilting campaign of major stormwater drains across the metropolis in view of the upcoming monsoon season, to ensure smooth flow of rainwater and reduce the risk of urban flooding.
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by the mayor, which reviewed ongoing development projects and the overall performance of municipal services.
The meeting held detailed discussions on monsoon preparedness, city infrastructure and measures to improve the city’s drainage system.
During the briefing, KMC Municipal Commissioner Abrar Jafar informed the meeting that tenders have already been issued for cleaning and desilting of major drains, while tenders will be opened on Monday.
He added that work on the campaign will begin immediately after the procurement process is completed, ensuring that all major drains are cleared before the monsoon rains begin.
He further stated that the KMC has allocated Rs 6 billion for the city-wide drain cleaning and desilting, terming it as a reflection of the civic body’s commitment to protect citizens and infrastructure during the rainy season.
Mayor Wahab directed that third-party consultants be engaged to ensure transparent monitoring, quality assurance and timely completion of the cleaning work. He stressed the need for strict oversight throughout the process to ensure efficient use of public funds and adherence to high standards.
KMC Financial Advisor Gulzar Abro presented district wise details of the allocated funds. According to the plan, Rs680 million has been allocated for District Central, Rs700 million each for District West and Keamari, Rs560 million for District South-I, Rs650 million for South-II after bifurcation of the district, Rs730 million for District East, Rs700 million for District Korangi and Rs580 million for District Malir.
Additionally, Rs740 million and Rs630 million have been earmarked for various critical city-wide drainage points that require special attention.
