Mayor reveals ‘Red Line’ project halted; water board mafia accused of theft

Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab during a visit to the Federation House on Friday disclosed that the Red Line project has come to a halt due to contractual issues.

Wahab highlighted that the project, initially estimated at USD 150, has faced setbacks as the dollar rate has surged to Rs 280. The mayor assured swift resolution with the new provincial government now in office.

Addressing concerns over stray dogs in the city, Mayor Wahab announced plans to establish four spay/neuter centers to tackle the issue effectively. He also revealed that the Sindh government has allocated funds in the budget for this purpose. Wahab further condemned water theft by mafia elements and the parallel water supply system operating underground.

He announced imminent crackdowns to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of efficient water distribution. Additionally, the inauguration of the twenty-two-kilometer-long Malir Expressway, costing fifty billion rupees, is set to benefit the public starting March 2025, providing improved connectivity and transportation options for Karachi residents.

Mayor emphasized the importance of solar and wind energy during his meeting with industry leaders and traders at the FPCCI event. He highlighted Karachi’s need for 6,000 megawatts of electricity and proposed the development of solar parks along the city’s 550 drains.

Barrister Murtaza Wahab disclosed plans for two treatment plants in Manora to provide five lac gallons of water, inviting public-private partnerships for business ventures. Furthermore, Mayor Karachi addressed the ongoing legal battle against including municipal taxes in electricity bills, initiated by Jamaat-e-Islami and Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan.

He expressed a commitment to working for the city’s betterment and announced upcoming policy reforms for sub soil water management to address public concerns.