KARACHI: Karachi Metropolitan Corporation will launch a citywide operation to clean major storm-water drains ahead of the coming monsoon season, said Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab, directing authorities to ensure timely completion of the work to minimise the risk of urban flooding and water logging.
The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by the Mayor to review monsoon preparedness, ongoing development projects, and municipal services across the megacity.
Municipal Commissioner Abrar Jaffar informed the meeting that tenders for the de-silting and cleaning of major drains had already been floated and bids would be opened on Monday. He said work would commence immediately after completion of procurement process to ensure all major drains are cleared before the onset of monsoon rains.
The KMC has earmarked Rs600 million for the citywide drain-cleaning campaign, reflecting what officials described as a major effort to improve Karachi’s preparedness for the rainy season and protect public infrastructure.
Mayor directed officials to appoint an independent third-party consultant to monitor the operation and ensure transparency, quality control, and timely execution of the project. “We performed well during last year’s monsoon, but this year we must do even better. There will be no room for delays, negligence, or complacency. I do not want to hear complaints regarding water accumulation or blocked drains,” he said while instructing departments to complete the work within the prescribed timeframe.
Officials briefed the meeting that district-wise allocations had been finalized, with funds distributed among Central, East, West, Korangi, Malir, South, and Keamari districts, while additional resources have been set aside for critical drainage locations requiring specialised intervention.
The Mayor said KMC was simultaneously undertaking an extensive development programme across the megacity and stressed that an efficient drainage system was essential to protect both existing and ongoing infrastructure projects during heavy rains.
He emphasised that proactive planning, strict monitoring, and coordinated efforts among civic agencies were key to mitigating monsoon-related challenges and ensuring better municipal services for residents.
The meeting was attended by senior officers of the civic body.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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