THE coastal belt of Karachi, particularly the stretch between Hawksbay and Mubarak Village, is surely one of the most frequented recreational corridors in the city. At the heart of this region lies the Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto (SMBB) Town, a locality that possesses the rare potential to become a model of urban forestry and environmental sustainability.

However, despite being home to over a hundred designated parks and thousands of indigenous neem trees, the said town currently stands as a true testament to administrative neglect.

The environmental significance of the town cannot be overstated. Neem trees, known for their air-purifying qualities and resilience to Karachi’s harsh climate, already exist in large numbers across the town’s various sectors. Yet, without regular maintenance, this green cover is under a constant threat. To truly harness this potential, the authorities must consider the development of an urban forest on the 50-acre expanse of vacant land available in sector 8 of the town. Such a project would not only mitigate the rising urban heat island effect, but also provide a much-needed ecological sanctuary for a city struggling with environmental challenges.

Furthermore, there is a dire need for functional public spaces for the local community and visitors. Specifically, in sector 2, the establishment of a model park should be a priority. At present, families are often greeted by broken swings and dilapidated infrastructure.

A revamped park with modern play areas for children is essential. To sustain the greenery and plantation in the said sector, the relevant authorities should ensure a consistent water supply through dedicated water tankers. Additionally, the deployment of security personnel is necessary to protect these public assets from acts of vandalism and encroachment.

Safiuddin Awan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2026