Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced an extensive development plan for Karachi, allocating over PKR 200 billion for various projects. The Malir Expressway, which will connect the city’s port to Jinnah International Airport, aims to ease traffic congestion and improve business logistics. Murad Ali Shah also shared plans to address the city’s chronic water shortage by bringing 200 million gallons of water from the Hub Dam to Karachi by June 2025. These announcements were made during his address at the annual dinner of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI).
The event, attended by business leaders, government officials, and industrialists, including KATI Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer, President Johar Qandhari, and Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, also saw the presence of key political figures such as Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Jam Ikram Dharejo, Local Bodies Minister Saeed Ghani, and Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho.
During his speech, CM Sindh expressed concern over the federal government’s neglect of Sindh, pointing out that the province had not received adequate investment compared to others. While motorways have been constructed across Pakistan, the highway connecting Karachi to Sukkur remains unfinished. Murad Ali Shah also raised concerns about the K4 water project, lamenting that it is the only major federal project allocated to Karachi despite its importance. Additionally, PKR 172 billion due for infrastructure cess remains tied up in legal disputes, with the matter now pending in the Supreme Court.
Despite these challenges, CM highlighted the Sindh government’s ongoing efforts to improve the city. He revealed that President Asif Ali Zardari is scheduled to visit China next month to secure further investments for Sindh, particularly for Karachi, as part of the Pakistan People’s Party’s (PPP) focus on urban development and economic growth.
KATI Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer used the occasion to stress the importance of taking immediate steps to stabilize Pakistan’s economy. He referred to the recent loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a temporary relief but noted that it is also a debt the nation must repay. Tanveer called for reforms to the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) system and expressed hope that a government task force would provide a solution within a month. He praised the Sindh government’s initiatives, particularly in healthcare, noting that people are now coming to Sindh from abroad for medical treatment. Tanveer also paid tribute to his late father SM Munir, a business leader whose legacy continues to guide KATI.
KATI President Johar Qandhari highlighted the challenges faced by Karachi’s industrialists, citing rising electricity costs and water shortages. He noted that businesses in the city are paying an additional Rs. 5 per unit for electricity compared to other regions and that industries are spending millions to secure water for their operations. While praising the Sindh government’s health, education, and infrastructure investments, Qandhari pointed out that these efforts have not been adequately publicized. He cited the PKR 1 billion fund provided to KITE Limited. This public-private partnership is transforming Korangi Industrial Area’s infrastructure, as a key example of the government’s commitment to development.
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya reiterated Karachi’s critical role in Pakistan’s economy. He stressed that the city must be prioritized if the country is to overcome its current economic challenges. He urged the government to focus on reducing production costs for exporters to increase national exports, arguing that Pakistan’s revenue cannot grow unless issues affecting taxpayers and businesses are addressed.
KITE Limited CEO Zahid Saeed added that Karachi contributes 56% of the country’s exports and 70% of Sindh’s revenue, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in the city’s development. He praised the Sindh government’s efforts, particularly in Korangi, where PKR 1.35 billion has been invested in infrastructure improvements.
Photo Caption: President Johar Qandhari and Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer presenting the shield to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at KATI’s annual dinner. Provincial Industry and Commerce Minister Jam Ikram Dharejo, Minister Local Bodies Sindh Saeed Ghani, Zubair Chhaya, Nighat Awan and Muslim Mohammadi are also present.
