KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has announced a massive development plan for Karachi. The government has allocated over PKR 200 billion for various projects across the city. One of the key projects is the Malir Expressway, designed to connect Karachi’s port with Jinnah International Airport. This project aims to reduce traffic congestion and boost logistics for businesses in the city.
Additionally, Murad Ali Shah addressed the city’s chronic water shortage. He revealed plans to bring 200 million gallons of water from Hub Dam to Karachi by June 2025. These announcements were made at the annual dinner of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI).
Key Figures at the Event
The event attracted several business leaders, government officials, and industrialists. Notable attendees included KATI Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer, President Johar Qandhari, and Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya. Political figures, including Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Jam Ikram Dharejo, Local Bodies Minister Saeed Ghani, and Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho, were also present.
Concerns Over Federal Neglect
During his speech, CM Sindh expressed concerns about the federal government’s lack of investment in Sindh. He pointed out that while motorways have been built across Pakistan, the motorway connecting Karachi to Sukkur remains incomplete. Murad Ali Shah also criticized the slow progress on the K4 water project, noting that it is the only major federal project allocated to Karachi.
Additionally, he mentioned the PKR 172 billion infrastructure cess that remains tied up in legal disputes, now awaiting a decision in the Supreme Court. Despite these challenges, the CM assured the audience of his commitment to improving Karachi’s infrastructure.
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Future Investments and Foreign Collaborations
Murad Ali Shah announced that former President Asif Ali Zardari will visit China next month to secure further investments for Sindh. This visit is part of the Pakistan People’s Party’s (PPP) strategy to focus on urban development and economic growth, especially in Karachi.
Business Leaders’ Response
KATI Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer urged immediate action to stabilize Pakistan’s economy. While he acknowledged the recent IMF loan as temporary relief, he emphasized that it is a debt that needs to be repaid. Tanveer also called for reforms in the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) system, hoping for a solution within a month.
He praised the Sindh government’s healthcare initiatives, noting that people from abroad are now coming to Sindh for medical treatment. Tanveer also paid tribute to his late father SM Munir, a respected business leader whose legacy continues to guide KATI.
Challenges Faced by Karachi’s Industrialists
KATI President Johar Qandhari highlighted the rising costs of electricity and water shortages faced by Karachi’s industrial sector. He pointed out that businesses in the city are paying an additional Rs. 5 per unit for electricity compared to other regions. Despite these challenges, he praised the Sindh government’s efforts in health, education, and infrastructure.
Qandhari cited the PKR 1 billion fund provided to KITE Limited, a public-private partnership that is transforming Korangi Industrial Area’s infrastructure, as an example of the government’s commitment.
Calls for Prioritizing Karachi’s Economy
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya reiterated the critical role Karachi plays in Pakistan’s economy. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the city to overcome the country’s economic challenges. He urged the government to focus on reducing production costs for exporters to boost national exports.
KITE Limited CEO Zahid Saeed added that Karachi contributes 56% of the country’s exports and 70% of Sindh’s revenue. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in the city’s development, highlighting the PKR 1.35 billion investment in Korangi’s infrastructure.
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