Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab Inaugurates Fish Food Street in Keamari

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: In a significant step towards enhancing recreational spaces in the city, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab officially inaugurated the Fish Food Street in Keamari on Sunday. This initiative, launched by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, aims to provide a unique venue for citizens to enjoy local cuisine and leisure activities.

The inauguration ceremony saw a robust turnout, featuring several prominent figures, including Deputy Mayor Karachi Salman Abdullah Murad, Member of the Sindh Assembly Asif Khan, MPA Liaquat Askani, Deputy Parliamentary Leader in City Council Dil Muhammad, and representatives from various local bodies, alongside a large audience of community members and dignitaries.

During his address, Mayor Wahab emphasized the creation of a vibrant new hub for culinary delights and entertainment in Keamari. He noted that the Fish Food Street is visually stunning, adorned with colorful umbrellas and decorative lights that significantly enhance its appeal, particularly at night. The site is now a compelling destination for both residents and tourists.

The Mayor explained that the food street serves a wide variety of local and traditional dishes, featuring an array of fish specialties, BBQ, and other popular foods. He highlighted the excellent arrangements made for food enthusiasts, with spacious seating designed for families to dine comfortably.

Detailing the project’s development, Mayor Wahab noted that the Fish Food Street has undergone extensive construction work, including the laying of paving blocks across 62,000 square feet and tuff tiles over 35,000 square feet. Other enhancements include the installation of distinctive Victorian-style poles, a new sewerage line extending 1,400 running feet, two arch-style entrance gates with signage, and the strategic placement of 500 colorful umbrellas to create an inviting atmosphere.

"This project provides a modern recreational space that combines aesthetics with convenience for both local residents and visitors," the Mayor stated. He expressed confidence that such developments will further beautify Karachi and improve its appeal, significantly enhancing facilities for its citizens and positively reshaping the city's image.

Addressing long-standing community aspirations, Mayor Wahab remarked on how the establishment of this food street resolves a demand that has existed for years, reminiscent of the famed food street at Burns Road. He credited the leadership of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) for facilitating the project's realization, stating that previous announcements by other groups had failed to deliver tangible results.

"A real change has already arrived in Keamari under the PPP’s leadership," he asserted. He provided assurances that infrastructural improvements, including the reconstruction of the road leading to the oil terminal, are also underway, complemented by efforts to ease severe traffic disruptions in the area.

Looking ahead, the Mayor also announced plans for a new canal sourced from the Hub Dam, expected to be completed in ten months. This project is projected to substantially increase water supply to Karachi, particularly benefitting the western districts and Keamari.

In closing, Mayor Wahab reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing local healthcare and environmental protections, including ongoing developments aimed at supporting fishermen's livelihoods and preserving the marine ecosystem.

As preparations for Independence Day commence across the nation, Mayor Wahab’s initiatives signal a forward-moving vision intended to foster community development and engagement in Karachi.