KARACHI: In an effort to resolve the city’s traffic challenges and improve urban infrastructure, City Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Sunday inaugurated a vertical parking facility at Bolton Market, developed by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC).

Talking to media representatives, the mayor said that all new development work in Karachi is being carried out under the manifesto of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). He acknowledged the presence of the president of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and his team, stating that this project should have been completed years ago but is now finally coming to fruition.

He emphasised that decision-making is essential for running any economy. He recalled that when the decision to construct vertical parking at Bolton Market was originally taken, it was during the government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. However, when General Zia-ul-Haq came into power, the then-mayor abandoned the idea. A formal agreement about the site was signed in 1976, but the matter later ended up in court in 1986, and a case has been pending in the Sindh High Court ever since.

“Today, after 49 years, we are opening this parking facility to the public,” he said. The mayor expressed his satisfaction that visitors to Bolton Market and its surroundings now have access to this vertical parking facility, where more than 200 cars and 250 motorcycles can be parked at the same time in a safe and secure environment.

Formal agreement was signed in 1976 but it took 49 years to implement the idea due to litigation, says mayor

Mr Wahab said that Karachi’s major parking problem is now beginning to be addressed. He shared a personal story about a senior citizen who pointed out the issue on M.A. Jinnah Road, prompting him to investigate and identify the landowners to find a solution together.

He mentioned that Rs100 million in revenue was recovered because the funds were stuck in litigation.

Additionally, 50 office spaces have been created at this location — 25 under public-private partnership and 25 under KMC’s control.

“Had we resolved this matter earlier, imagine how much revenue could have been generated in 49 years and how much tax could have gone to the government,” he said.

He further said that Bolton Market is among the few markets in Pakistan that contribute billions in taxes.

“When Bolton Market thrives, Karachi and Pakistan thrive,” he said. “I cannot trade better than traders, and traders know the law better than I do,” he added.

The mayor also criticised the environment of fear created by NAB and court interference, stating that it has halted decision-making across the country. “Three to four decades ago, we didn’t face these issues. Allegations and fear have paralysed leadership.”

Mr Wahab added that the income from the offices in the vertical parking structure will benefit both KMC and the private sector. He highlighted other projects such as the parking areas developed at People’s Square, Empress Market, near the Pakistan Stock Exchange and on I.I. Chundrigar Road.

He strongly rejected the perception that the city is not functioning, asserting: “This city will be run by Karachiites. The projects we’ve initiated under the leadership of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari will reach completion.”

The ceremony was attended by Karachi Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad, Parliamentary Leader in the City Council Kara­mullah Waqasi, Deputy Parliam­entary Leader Dil Muhammad, Jaman Darwan and other elected representatives.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2025