KARACHI, Oct 16: The city government is considering the preparation of a new master plan with reference to the city’s transport system in Saddar, so that shoppers and pedestrians in this area could be provided more facilities.

Under the new plan, all encroachments by push-cart vendors and roadside vendors will be removed from streets and alleys and shifted to the hawkers zone, where they would be provided all facilities.

It is also being considered to ban the entry of all kinds of transport into Saddar, and vehicles will be allowed upto its exterior limit.

Under the plan, trees will be planted in the streets and alleys of Saddar, and the area will be beautified with tilings.

According to official sources, a meeting was held under the chairmanship of City Nazim Naimatullah Khan in this regard. Khan, later on, paid a detailed visit to Saddar.

It was agreed that with reference to the ideas conceived, first the master plan would be chalked out, and then implemented in phases.

It was also agreed that there is a need to take steps to restore Empress Market to its original shape, to solve the transport problem in Saddar and eliminate pollution from the area.

According to sources, the Nazim has set up a five-member committee for the beautification of Saddar and preparation of its new master plan.

The committee will comprise the DIG Traffic, EDO’s Works and Master Plan, DG Traffic Engineering and architect Yasmin Lari. It will submit its report within a week.

According to a spokesman of the city government, Saddar is the only business district where people from the middle, lower middle and rich classes come to shop.

Because the traffic rush, insanitation and environmental pollution has increased, pedestrians are facing problems.

He said it is the desire of the Nazim to make Saddar a model business centre where recreational facilities are also available for visitors.—APP