Mayor Reviews Nullah Cleaning, Orders Swift Removal of Blockages

By: Aziz Khatri

  Karachi: Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab has announced that large-scale cleaning of drains across the city is underway as part of comprehensive pre-monsoon preparations, assuring citizens of maximum possible relief during the upcoming rainy season.

He stated that strict action will be taken against individuals involved in dumping garbage into drains, emphasizing that such practices severely disrupt the drainage system and contribute to urban flooding.

Keeping past experiences in mind, the city administration has begun establishing an effective monitoring system at key choke points to ensure a timely response to any emergency during rains. The mayor noted that the flow of water in major drains is currently satisfactory, while teams of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation are working in a coordinated manner to tackle monsoon-related challenges.

In addition to drain cleaning, rain relief camps have been set up at various locations under the City Wardens Department to assist citizens during emergencies.

The mayor expressed these views while inspecting ongoing cleaning work at major nullahs, including PIDC Nullah, Hijrat Colony Nullah, and Zehri Nullah. On the occasion, Municipal Commissioner Abrar Jaffar, Senior Director Municipal Services Iqbal Nawaz, and other officials were also present.

During the visit, the mayor directed concerned authorities to further accelerate the cleaning process and ensure the immediate removal of any obstructions to maintain smooth water flow. He stressed that complaints related to drainage issues must be addressed promptly and that complaint centers should remain fully operational.

Reaffirming his commitment, Mayor Wahab stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and that the city’s leadership stands firmly with its citizens. He added that KMC teams will remain active on the streets during rainfall to provide maximum relief.

The mayor also appealed to the public to cooperate with civic authorities by maintaining cleanliness and avoiding the disposal of waste into drains or on roads. He underscored that an effective sanitation system cannot be achieved without active public participation.

He further informed that machinery and staff have been deployed on an emergency basis and are working round the clock. All relevant departments, he added, have been placed on high alert to ensure swift handling of any untoward situation during the expected rains.