In a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability, promoting eco-tourism, and investing in a greener future for Karachi, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) on Saturday announced the development of a Mangrove and Biodiversity Park and Learning Centre at China Creek.
Officials said the project followed an announcement made by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab during the inauguration of the Mangrove Park at Ibrahim Hyderi. The initiative reflected the KMC’s commitment to environmental conservation, climate resilience, and the creation of sustainable public spaces for future generations.
Speaking during a visit to the proposed project site, Wahab said the development of the Mangrove and Biodiversity Park was not merely an environmental project but a long-term investment in the city’s future. “Karachi is Pakistan’s economic engine and continues to witness rapid urban growth and infrastructure development. However, environmental sustainability must remain at the heart of our development agenda. This project represents our commitment to protecting Karachi’s ecological assets while creating opportunities for education, recreation, tourism, and community engagement,” he said.
He noted that mangroves served as a natural defense against coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and climate-related disasters. They also provided critical habitats for marine life and contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, making them among the most effective natural solutions to climate change.
Wahab emphasised that the KMC was among the first district governments in Pakistan to actively pursue a comprehensive green agenda. He highlighted several ongoing and planned initiatives focused on renewable energy, urban forestry, sustainable development, environmental protection, and eco-tourism.
“For decades, environmental concerns remained neglected while unchecked urbanization continued to place immense pressure on Karachi’s natural ecosystems. Our responsibility as a local government extends beyond providing municipal services; we must also safeguard the city’s environmental future. Through initiatives such as this Biodiversity Park, we weee laying the foundation for a greener, healthier, and more resilient Karachi,” he added.
The park and centre would serve as a unique destination for residents, students, researchers, environmentalists, and tourists. The project was envisioned as a vibrant ecological space featuring mangrove conservation zones, biodiversity trails, educational facilities, awareness programmes, and eco-tourism attractions designed to connect people with nature while promoting environmental stewardship.
Wahab further announced that the project has entered the execution phase and was expected to be completed in November this year. Upon completion, it was anticipated to attract millions of visitors annually and become one of Karachi’s premier environmental and educational landmarks.
Wahab also expressed gratitude to renowned environmentalist Tariq Alexander Qaiser for his guidance, expertise, and support in conceptualising the initiative.
“I would like to thank Tariq Alexander Qaiser for his encouragement and continuous guidance. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping this project and advancing Karachi’s environmental conservation efforts,” the mayor said.
The development of the Mangrove and Biodiversity Park reinforced the KMC’s broader vision of creating sustainable urban environments, expanding green spaces, and ensuring that environmental protection remained a central pillar of Karachi’s development strategy.
