“Karachi Is Our City — All Stakeholders Must Work Together,” Says Mayor Murtaza Wahab

Karachi: Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab has emphasized the need for collective effort to resolve the city’s longstanding civic issues, stating that Karachi belongs to all and that political collaboration is crucial for sustainable development.

While speaking to the media, Wahab questioned who truly holds authority over the city, suggesting that this is a question better directed at the Prime Minister or federal ministers. “As far as I’m concerned, this is our city, and it’s essential that we address the problems faced by the people of Karachi,” he said.

He acknowledged the support of the Sindh government and Chief Minister for promoting unity among stakeholders but stressed that there’s a need to further improve coordination for effective governance. “There must be command at some level to ensure smooth operations,” he added.

Taking aim at his political critics, Wahab said, “Some political performers only appear when it’s time to criticize; no one shows up when there’s real work to be done.” He mentioned the unprecedented water flow in the Lyari and Orangi nullahs, adding that development work is actively underway on Shahrah-e-Bhutto and Hub Canal, with the Quaidabad phase also under construction. The old segment of the Hub Canal has been rebuilt, and a 22-kilometer new section has been completed.

The mayor lamented what he described as a biased attitude toward Karachi. “Some people have moved from hating the PPP to now hating Karachi. Bhutto and Zardari visited several areas in Punjab without criticism, but Karachi always faces undue backlash,” he remarked. He reminded critics of the city’s dire conditions during the heavy rains of 2003, 2013, and 2020.

Wahab declared his responsibility for the city’s roads and criticized those who only point fingers without contributing. “Those who just criticize are, frankly, incompetent,” he said. He announced that road repair and restoration work—paused due to rain—will resume on Sunday.

He urged cooperation from all political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and PTI, especially in the towns under their administration. “If their town administrations work with us, we can solve Karachi’s issues much more efficiently,” he said.

Updating on infrastructure projects, the mayor said work is ongoing on 106 roads across Karachi. He explained that rain-induced damage expands potholes from one foot to six feet, increasing road deterioration. Initially, Rs 750-800 million had been allocated for road repairs, but with added rain damage, more funds will be required. Wahab said he will approach the Chief Minister of Sindh for additional financial support.

He reiterated that roadwork will resume Sunday to improve mobility and ease citizens’ hardships, asserting that the city’s recovery remains a top priority.