Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, conducted a detailed visit to the Central District on Tuesday, where he chaired a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office to address urban issues and ongoing development projects. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Taha Saleem, Director General Solid Waste Management Board Tariq Nizamani, senior officials from KDA, KMC, Karachi Water Corporation, SBCA, and other departments, along with municipal commissioners and chairpersons of North Nazimabad, Gulberg, and Liaquatabad towns.
During the visit, Commissioner Naqvi inspected the ongoing anti-encroachment operations in Mujahid Colony and Lyari River areas. The Deputy Commissioner briefed him, stating that over 300 makeshift huts had been removed from the Lyari River near Teen Hatti.
The Commissioner directed authorities to ensure that encroachments do not reappear in the area. A comprehensive briefing on the district’s cleanliness system was provided. It was highlighted that a door-to-door garbage collection project has been launched in five union councils, with plans to expand citywide. The Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB) assured its full cooperation in implementing this initiative, which includes placing large dustbins in areas generating high volumes of waste and introducing modern garbage transfer stations. SWMB Director General Tariq Nizamani revealed that 16 smaller garbage transfer stations are being set up at four locations within the district, with work expected to be completed next month. Additionally, 100 garbage trolleys will be provided by February to enhance waste transfer capabilities.
Meeting reviewed various infrastructure and rehabilitation projects, including road construction in Mujahid Colony, Karimabad underpass, Lyari-Gujjar Nala link, and restoration work on key roads such as Shahrah-e-Humayun, Sher Shah Suri Road, and Shahrah-e-Jahangir. Work on rebuilding libraries like Ghalib Library and Taimuria Library and revamping schools, colleges, and playgrounds, such as Gulberg Gymkhana, is also underway. It was disclosed that restoration work on 40 schools and colleges is ongoing in the district. The Commissioner instructed the Deputy Commissioner to inspect these projects and collaborate with the Education Department for necessary teacher appointments and provision of furniture where required.
Commissioner reviewed the district’s efforts against illegal constructions, where 254 unauthorized buildings have been demolished. He emphasized the need for strict monitoring by the Sindh Building Control Authority to prevent illegal activities. It was decided that accountability measures would be enforced against SBCA officials and staff found responsible for unauthorized constructions. Commissioner Naqvi directed all departments to ensure timely implementation of development projects and maintain coordination for improved urban management.
