Karachi Mayor Inaugurates Solar Water Pumping Stations in Malir District

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: Mayor Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, and Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad launched a significant initiative to improve water supply in the Malir District by inaugurating two solar water pumping stations. The newly installed 140 kW solar systems in Dumba Goth and Hashim Gabol Goth aim to provide clean drinking water to over 40 villages, benefitting more than 50,000 residents and addressing long-standing water scarcity issues in the region.

During the inauguration, Mayor Wahab received a comprehensive briefing on the project, which is a collaboration with the Sindh Government’s Energy Department. An 80 kW solar system has been installed at the Dumba Goth Water Pumping Scheme, while a 60 kW system has been set up at Hashim Gabol Goth. The total project cost is Rs. 42 million. These solar pumping stations are expected to generate approximately 1.1 million electricity units per year. This shift to solar energy not only facilitates an annual savings of Rs. 12 million but also contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions by 212 tons, marking it as a major environmental initiative. Historically, water supply in rural Malir has faced severe disruptions due to ongoing electricity load shedding. The primary goal of this solar project is to provide a reliable water supply in areas frequently affected by power outages, improving living conditions for the local population. In addition to benefiting Dumba Goth, the project is set to enhance water accessibility for around 24 villages, including Hashim Gabol Goth and Gadap, which together house a population of approximately 12,000, and another 7 villages in the Dumba Goth area with around 14,000 residents. At a press briefing, Mayor Wahab expressed confidence in the solar initiative, stating, “We are not just discussing the problems; we are delivering practical solutions. Where there is no electricity, we are ensuring a sustainable supply through solar energy.” He emphasized the commitment of the Pakistan People's Party to public service without bias, announcing the allocation of development funds across all 246 union councils in the city. Furthermore, he revealed that the Hub Canal project is scheduled for inauguration on August 14, with ongoing work on various water treatment schemes to ensure broader access to clean water. Addressing the rising electricity costs and their impact on citizens, Mayor Wahab reiterated that solar energy is a practical and essential solution for both urban and rural populations. “Public resources are a trust and must be used for the public good,” he stated, highlighting the government’s dedication to finding solutions rather than lamenting a lack of resources. With the inauguration of these solar pumping stations, the Sindh Government and local leadership showcase their commitment to sustainable development and tackling the future energy crisis in Karachi, marking a significant step forward in the region's quest for reliable water supply and environmental responsibility.