IN 2022, Karachi, which is the country’s economic hub, was ranked among the most unliveable cities in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit. Karachi was ranked 168th on Global Liveability Index out of 172. Health-care, environment, education, infrastructure, culture and stability were the core indicators that pushed the city to be ranked among the unliveable cities globally.

Since I am a resident of the megacity, I can relate to these indicators to a great extent. I live in Block 2 of Gulshan-i-Iqbal, and there is enough in the area to endorse the ‘liveability’ argument.

Just take the example of abrupt parking areas that are carved out overnight every few nights. Add to it the parking chaos of a well-known supermarket in the area, and you would start thinking of your immigration options.

The situation has become so intense and frustrating, with cars parked in a disorderly manner, that it is now difficult, if not impossible, for the area residents to even get their vehicles out onto the main road; for me, personally, it takes around 30 minutes. Yes, 30 minutes.

As the supermarket is located right on Rashid Minhas Road, its parking lot has increased traffic congestion, forcing the commuters to inch through jammed vehicles. While the super-market’s popularity and outreach is respected, it is vital to address the traffic issues to ensure a peaceful coexistence with the surrounding community.

The management of the supermarket concerned should take immediate measures in collaboration with the relevant authorities to resolve the issue forthwith.

It will do a lot of good to the image of the supermarket, which actively encourages people to chase value in their purchase, within the local community. If such a cooperation could include community representatives, it will be a seriously good initiative.

Developing on this, the plan should consider the needs and concerns of residents and businesses functioning in the area to promote safe and efficient traffic flow. Possible solutions could include having parking attendants or some security personnel to ensure proper parking. This is as simple as that.

Asad Ali
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 23rd, 2023