Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah approved PKR 1.5 billion for the repair of Karachi’s roads damaged by heavy rainfall, according to a statement from the CM House, as reported on September 19.
As per details, since August 27, Karachi has experienced nearly 226 millimeters of rainfall across its seven districts. This severe weather has led to significant road damage, with key thoroughfares caving in, rainwater mixing with sewage, and many streets becoming unusable for both pedestrians and motorists.
In response to these issues, the Sindh Assembly recently echoed opposition concerns about the deteriorating condition of roads during even brief periods of rainfall.
During a meeting held at CM House to address the damage, CM Shah emphasised the need for accountability in the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure. “It is unacceptable for the quality of work to fall short of standards, and strict action must be taken against those responsible,” he stated.
The meeting, which included Planning and Development Minister Nasir Shah, Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, reviewed the extent of the damage. Wahab reported that 17,861,500 square feet of roadways had been affected, with District West experiencing the most significant damage.
The Chief Minister directed Ghani to investigate the quality of roads constructed or repaired since 2022, noting that the damage indicates a failure in maintaining standards. The required PKR 1.5 billion was promptly approved for repairs and reconstruction, with a focus on ensuring high-quality work.
In a separate meeting, CM Shah also addressed damage in Hyderabad and Sukkur divisions. He instructed the Works and Services Department to assess the damage and begin repairs. This meeting was attended by Minister P&D Nasir Shah, Minister Works Haji Ali Hassan Zardari, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and other senior officials.
