Wahab launches plan for revamping key markets

KARACHI: Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Thursday announced the development of a master plan aimed at reconstructing and revitalising roads, alongside the replacement of sewerage lines, in Jodia Bazaar and Kapra Market.

The plan will incorporate both traditional road materials and high-quality pavers to ensure durable and sustainable infrastructure in these key commercial hubs. He added that the master plan would include a well-defined timeline to ensure the timely completion of these much-needed upgrades.

During his visit to Jodia Bazaar and Kapra Market on Thursday morning, Wahab, accompanied by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani and other key stakeholders, directed the immediate deployment of essential municipal services to the area. These include the allocation of a dedicated fire tender, a sewerage suction vehicle, and a tow truck within Jodia Bazaar’s jurisdiction.

He also assigned focal persons to oversee key urban management issues such as the restoration of streetlights, maintenance of sewerage lines and removal of debris and garbage in collaboration with the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board. To facilitate coordination, a committee was formed, comprising Afzal Zaidi, Karamullah Wasi and Noor Hassan Jokhio from the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). Representing Jodia Bazaar were Haris Agar, Abdul Qadir Noorani and Saleem Lala, while Saquib Goodluck and Sheikh Alam were nominated as representatives from Kapra Market.

In response to traders’ concerns over the ongoing construction of sewerage and rainwater drainage lines at Merry Weather Tower, Wahab assured that the development work would be expedited and completed before the holy month of Ramazan. All necessary road patchwork in Jodia Bazaar and Kapra Market will be finalised before Ramazan.

To minimise disruptions, all revamping activities -- including sewerage line restoration, debris clearance and garbage removal -- will be carried out after midnight to ensure business operations remain unaffected during the day.

Addressing complaints about the complete blockage of a sewerage line at Bombay Bazaar and the poor condition of Saleh Muhammad Street, he pledged immediate action, including replacing the clogged sewerage line and restoring the street to ease hardships faced by the local business community.

To enhance parking facilities in the area, Wahab confirmed the construction of a ramp at the Bolton Market building, which will accommodate up to 300 vehicles. This initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to traders and visitors. Two to three designated motorcycle parking zones have been identified to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow. Responding to concerns about unorganised overhead cables, he assured that loose cabling would be systematically arranged to improve both safety and aesthetics in the area.

Reaffirming his commitment to urban development, Wahab emphasised that the immediate restoration of streetlights and the clearance of choked sewerage lines remain top priorities. He directed authorities to commence garbage and debris removal without delay to ensure a cleaner and more organised environment for traders and residents.

Wahab reiterated his administration’s dedication to enhancing Karachi’s commercial districts, fostering a more business-friendly atmosphere and implementing sustainable urban improvements. He urged local traders and residents to collaborate with the city administration to achieve long-term infrastructural advancements. Bilwani expressed his appreciation for Wahab and the Sindh government’s unwavering support for the business community, particularly small traders and shopkeepers.