KARACHI: A tea party organised by the Heritage Foundation at Denso Hall Rahguzar on Sunday brought together Karachiites from all walks of life to take ownership of their city and join hands to transform it into a humanistic eco-city.

On the occasion, the celebrated first female architect of the country, Yasmeen Lari, made an impassioned call for active participation in the metamorphosis of Karachi while launching the concept of ‘Meri Gali Mera Shehr’ a community mobilisation programme to develop ownership of Karachi.

She also made a presentation highlighting the pathetic state of the city — urban degradation, urban heat islands, urban flooding — and loss of heritage, fashion of constructing multi-storey buildings, depicting a complete lack of ownership.

Her words resonated with the attendees, igniting a spark of hope and determination in the hearts of all present, and many registered on the spot for some kind of volunteer work to help salvage the city.

A documentary by Shanaz Ramzi, director of Heritage Foundation, was also screened.

The Heritage Founda­tion’s recent phenomenal work during the floods of helping the people build homes for themselves was also showcased.

Arif Bahalim, a founding member of Karavan Karachi, also spoke.

Published in Dawn, Aug 1st, 2023