Reaffirming the provincial government’table commitment to address water supply issues.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced that Karachi’s ongoing water crisis would be significantly alleviated following completion of Hub Canal and KB Feeder projects, both set for December 2025. These include a $1.6 billion World Bank-supported program enhancing efficiency through operational upgrades (Phase 2).
The two project sites in Thatta and Hub are progressing well: Hub Canal Project completion by Dec ’25, while the KB Feeder is at approximately 40% as of year’s end. The new canal lining will save about 510 cusecs daily to support Karachi’s growing needs which align with Phase I water supply project requirements.
Schemes have already produced impressive results by conserving the same volume for initial phases alone—enough water now being supplied through K-IV, a plan set in motion alongside these infrastructure projects, aiming at tapping into Keenjhar Lake’s resources with substantial quantities expected soon from Phase I.
Investment has been made to expand Hub Canal project supply capacity by Rs12.76 billion—a pivotal part of the water augmentation strategy set for completion in ‘Dec 25’. Alongside this, three new reservoirs and improvements to pumping stations are included within K-IV’s phase one development plan that will further ensure efficient distribution across Karachi.
Despite limited federal support impact on KB Feeder funding progress; the Sindh government remains committed despite challenges in completing this key infrastructure project essential for water supply enhancement, which is rapidly advancing as per schedule and has already begun construction of three new reservoirs within K-IV.
The chief minister also announced substantial completion on Malir Expressway expected by 2025—reducing commute times significantly around Karachi while promoting overall urban infrastructure improvement, mirroring the government’s dedication to securing water rights and improving connectivity in Sindh.
Murtaza Wahab highlighted that despite contributing half of Jamshoro-to-Sehwan road project funds leading to pending status; many major projects have been successfully finished using own provincial resources, showcasing a development pace unmatched by other provinces and federal government efforts in Sindh.
Plans are also underway for expansion of Bus Rapid Transit system throughout the province that will enhance public transportation facilities across Karachi further—a testament to ongoing commitment towards improving urban commute infrastructure within Sindh Province, which even surpasses pace set by other provinces and federal government.
Published in Dawn Magazine dated Janu01st of January ’25
