Karachi: Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Tuesday said that concrete steps are being taken to transform Karachi into a greener, more environmentally friendly and pollution-free city, as a large-scale urban forest initiative was inaugurated near the EBM Causeway along Shahrah-e-Bhutto.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Mayor said the project would play an important role in improving air quality, reducing pollution, and providing citizens with a healthier urban environment.
Under the initiative, around 10,000 trees have already been planted along the EBM Causeway, while the overall target is to plant 100,000 saplings in phases across the area.
The Mayor said indigenous and climate-appropriate species such as neem, gulmohar and others are being planted to ensure sustainability in Karachi’s weather conditions. He added that the initiative would help lower temperatures, improve oxygen levels, and contribute to controlling the effects of urban pollution.
He further said the urban forest project would also support biodiversity by creating natural habitats for birds and small wildlife, while enhancing the city’s aesthetic appeal. The ceremony was attended by members of the City Council, elected representatives, and senior officials of relevant departments.
Highlighting the impact of climate change, Wahab said rising temperatures in Karachi reflect broader global warming trends, stressing that environmental protection must be treated as a priority for future generations. He added that development institutions across the country are engaged in infrastructure projects, while the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is focusing on expanding green cover through plantation drives in open spaces.
He directed the Parks Department to replicate similar green zones across all seven districts of Karachi, noting that plantation work has already begun in areas such as Korangi.
Referring to development projects, the Mayor said Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had pledged the completion of Shahrah-e-Bhutto, adding that the project is expected to be inaugurated this month.
Commenting on the proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment, he stated that no formal draft has been shared and noted that federal ministers have already clarified that no such proposal is currently under consideration.
Wahab emphasized that Karachi’s challenges require coordinated efforts among all relevant institutions, adding that strict action would be taken against any irregularities or wrongdoing wherever identified.
