KARACHI, Dec 4: Prince Karim Aga Khan accompanied by Sindh Governor Ishratul Ibad Khan, visited under the construction Beach Park at the Clifton shore here on Saturday night.

Briefing the Aga Khan on the occasion, the governor informed that this mega project, which was started four months back, would be completed this month and would be inaugurated by President Musharraf.

Speaking on the occasion, the prince said that he was greatly delighted on seeing the development of Karachi.

He described the park’s planning and beauty as impressive and appreciated the efforts and interest of the Sindh governor in this regard.

The prince eulogised the commitment and efforts of the young leadership for the development of the province and Karachi in particular.

On the occasion, City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal apprised the Aga Khan on the details of the Beach Park project.

Giving credit to the Sindh governor, the nazim said that some four months back during a visit to the city areas, Dr Ibad had taken notice of the encroachments and filth on the site in question and issued directives for the use of this place for recreational purposes.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ibad said this place would turn into a unique recreational spot not only for the Karachiites but also for the people of other areas of the country.

He said that the historic Kothari Parade after its rehabilitation and Bagh Ibn-i-Qasim after completion would be linked to the Beach Park.

Dr Ibad said that the entire project would cost Rs500 million and its completion would add to the beauty of the Clifton Beach.

He informed that some 4,000 labourers worked relentlessly with the help of heavy machinery for the construction of this 4km long park.

The project envisages picnic points and recreational section for children. Besides, it has two jogging tracks while space allocated for six parking lots where 3,000 cars can be parked at a time, he said adding that the park will also have food courts, play land and other facilities.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz had also visited the park along with the Sindh governor, chief minister, city nazim and other officials on Friday night.

Speaking on the occasion, the premier said that the provincial and city governments had started recreational projects for Karachi, adding that the city’s hustle and bustle would now increase.

Observing that there was a shortage of recreational places in Karachi, he said that the citizens would now be able to visit this recreational spot along with their families after its completion.

Mr Aziz appreciated the initiatives of the provincial and city governments.

The prime minister said that there would be no more load-shedding in Karachi after the KESC’s handing over to the private sector.

The Sindh governor, on the occasion, said these projects were initiated on emergency bases and completed in a short span.—APP