Karachi, November 2: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has expressed deep disappointment over the state of Karachi’s deteriorating infrastructure, saying that the country’s largest city and economic hub deserves far better urban and transport facilities than what it currently has.
Speaking during his visit to Karachi, the minister remarked that each time he visits the city, he feels disheartened by the poor condition of its roads, bridges, and transport systems. “Whenever I come to Karachi, I am deeply saddened to see the condition of its infrastructure,” he stated.
Abdul Aleem Khan emphasized that Karachi’s existing infrastructure does not reflect its economic importance as Pakistan’s commercial capital. “This city is the heartbeat of our national economy, but its infrastructure does not match that status,” he added.
Concerns Over Lyari Expressway Project
The minister also expressed dissatisfaction over the ongoing work on the Lyari Expressway, terming it “unsatisfactory and slow.” He announced that the Member South of the National Highway Authority (NHA) had been suspended due to poor performance and negligence in the execution of the project.
“The progress on the Lyari Expressway project is unsatisfactory. I have directed the suspension of the responsible officer and ordered that this important project be turned into a model initiative,” Abdul Aleem Khan said.
He vowed to ensure that the Lyari Expressway is transformed into a model infrastructure project, setting new standards for development and efficiency. The minister added that special monitoring teams would now supervise the work to guarantee quality and timely completion.
Karachi’s Economic Role and Infrastructure Neglect
Highlighting Karachi’s role as the economic lifeline of Pakistan, the minister said that decades of neglect, mismanagement, and lack of coordinated planning had left the city’s roads, drainage, and transport systems in a state of decline.
“Karachi generates the bulk of the country’s revenue and trade, yet its civic and transport infrastructure remains in ruins. This imbalance must be corrected through long-term planning and federal–provincial cooperation,” he asserted.
Abdul Aleem Khan urged that the federal and provincial governments must work together to address Karachi’s chronic infrastructure problems, including traffic congestion, damaged roads, and outdated drainage systems. He emphasized that sustainable urban development in Karachi is vital for the country’s overall economic growth.
Federal Government’s Commitment to Urban Improvement
The communications minister reiterated the federal government’s commitment to modernizing urban and transport infrastructure across Pakistan, particularly in key metropolitan cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. He said that upcoming projects would focus on improving road safety, drainage, and environmental sustainability.
“The government is committed to delivering visible change in public infrastructure. Karachi’s uplift is a national priority, and we will not tolerate inefficiency or corruption in any ongoing project,” he said.
Conclusion
Concluding his remarks, Abdul Aleem Khan said that Karachi’s residents deserve better infrastructure, cleaner surroundings, and safer roads. He pledged that his ministry would ensure accountability, transparency, and quality in all development works under the National Highway Authority and related departments.
