In an initiative to strengthen the city’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) will launch a comprehensive cleaning drive of all major storm-water drains (nullahs) across the city to ensure the proper drainage of rainwater and minimise the risk of urban flooding.
Officials said the decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, to review progress in ongoing development projects and municipal services. The meeting focused on monsoon preparedness, civic infrastructure and measures to improve drainage systems throughout Karachi.
KMC Metropolitan Commissioner Abrar Jaffar informed the meeting that tenders for de-silting and cleaning of major drains had already been floated with the bid opening scheduled for Monday (today). Following the completion of the procurement process, work would commence immediately to ensure that all major drains were cleaned well before the arrival of monsoon rains, he said.
He further informed the meeting that the KMC had allocated Rs600 million for the citywide drain cleaning operation, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to protecting citizens and public infrastructure during the rainy season.
The mayor directed that a third-party consultant be engaged to independently monitor the cleaning process to ensure transparency, quality control and timely completion of the work. He emphasised that strict oversight would be maintained throughout the operation to guarantee effective utilisation of public funds and adherence to the highest standards.
KMC Financial Adviser Gulzar Abro presented the district-wise allocation of funds for the drain cleaning campaign. According to the approved plan, Rs68 million have been allocated for District Central, Rs70 million for District West and Keamari, Rs56 million for South-I, Rs65 million for South-II following the bifurcation of District South, Rs73 million for District East, Rs70 million for District Korangi, and Rs58 million for District Malir.
In addition, Rs74 million and Rs63 million have been earmarked for various collective drainage sites across the city requiring specialised attention. Addressing the meeting, Wahab stated that the KMC had simultaneously been carrying out an extensive development programme across the city, making it essential that all drains remained fully functional to facilitate the uninterrupted flow of rainwater and protect completed as well as ongoing infrastructure projects.
“We performed well during last year’s monsoon, but this year we must deliver even better results. There will be no room for delays, negligence or complacency. I do not want to hear any complaints regarding water accumulation or blocked drains. Every concerned department must ensure that the cleaning operation is completed efficiently and within the stipulated timeframe,” the mayor said.
He reiterated that proactive planning and coordinated municipal efforts were essential for safeguarding residents from rain-related inconveniences and reaffirmed the KMC’s commitment to providing improved civic services and building a more resilient Karachi.
