Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah has decided to develop Nahr-i-Khayyam into a recreational spot, a news source reported. The CM was chairing a meeting with several ministers and officials when he made the announcement. He informed the meeting that Nahr-i-Khayyam, which is a storm-water drain, will be developed into a 1-kilometre long canal.
Shah briefed the meeting that after this development, the storm-water drain will have clean water, and the public would be able to enjoy boating between Clifton and Boat Basin. The surroundings will also be beautified for establishing a recreational environment, he added.
The meeting further discussed the beautification of Sharae Faisal between Hotel Metropole and Jinnah Terminal. For this purpose, the buildings along both sides of this route would be given a uniform colour scheme – with little contrast.
The spokesperson for the CM revealed that the authorities plan to install a treatment plan at Shaheed Benazir Park, which will supply clean water to the canal. After upgradation, Nahr-i-Khayyam will consist of a park, benches, a walking track, as well as several food and drink stalls.
Architect Shahid Abdullah will be responsible for devising a detailed plan in consultancy with other architects, environmentalists, and donors for implementing these projects. The projects will be completed on the basis of a public-private partnership arrangement. The devised plans will be presented to the CM for approval.
