Karachi: The Sindh Chief Minister (CM) of Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar has announced a visionary plan to uplift the living conditions of Karachi’s residents in aging Martin, Clayton, and Pakistan quarters, as per the news source on November 23. The initiative aims to introduce aesthetically pleasing residential towers, breathing new life into these quarters without displacing the existing residents.
As per the details, it was disclosed during a meeting attended by key city officials, that Martin, Clayton, and Jahangir quarters, covering a substantial 240 acres in the city’s East and Central districts, are in need of revitalization. Justice Baqar emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive urban planning strategy, focusing on inclusive planning, infrastructure enhancement, affordability, mixed-use development, green building practices, cultural preservation, public transport accessibility, safety, and waste management.
Originally owned by the federal government experiencing minimal maintenance since the capital’s relocation in 1958, these quarters have become a focal point for the city’s population. The land, initially designated for FG employees, has witnessed unauthorized expansions by descendants post-retirement. Justice Baqar’s proposal involves the construction of modern towers within the existing premises, offering a contemporary solution to replace the outdated and unsafe quarters.
Drawing inspiration from successful urban redevelopment projects, the Planning and Development (P&D) Board Chairman suggested examining Istanbul’s Fikirtepe residential area as a potential model. Launched in 2012, the Fikirtepe project is transforming a dense but dilapidated area and is expected to reach completion in 2023.
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