KARACHI: Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday officially inaugurated the “second phase” of the restored Empress Market in a move towards preserving Karachi’s rich architectural heritage and restoring the city’s historic identity.

The inauguration ceremony of the project, launched by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), was attended by government officials, business representatives and citizens.

Accompanied by Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, the CM said that the restoration of Empress Market is not merely the renovation of a historic structure but the revival of Karachi’s cultural soul.

He emphasised that preserving heritage sites is essential for strengthening the city’s identity and creating vibrant public spaces for residents, tourists, and future generations.

“This is more than the reopening of a market,” he said. “It is the unveiling of new opportunities for visitors, history enthusiasts, photographers, entrepreneurs and tourists to experience the authentic and timeless character of Karachi. Our commitment is to restore the city’s historic gems and reconnect people with their rich cultural legacy.”

The rehabilitation project includes the restoration of all market sections, the enhancement of pedestrian spaces, improved parking arrangements, the conservation of heritage architecture and the complete revival of the iconic clock tower, allowing it to function once again after a quarter of a century.

The chief minister added that several other heritage markets and historic structures are currently undergoing rehabilitation and will soon be restored to their original grandeur.

Later, a statement issued by the KMC said that the transformed Empress Market is expected to become a vibrant destination where commerce, culture, and history coexist, attracting local visitors and international tourists alike.

Published in Dawn, June 13th, 2026