KARACHI, Sept 5: The Defence Housing Authority has emphasised that the city beach would be turned into an attractive recreational resort for the public with the provision of proper lighting, decent sitting areas, board-walks, amphitheatres, jogging tracks, performance decks, water parks and children parks.

Responding to concerns voiced about the project regarding its waterfront development project, a DHA spokesman refuted the allegation that the project would deny beach access to common citizens.

He said not even one-kilometre land of the beachfront was being denied to the general public. Instead the quality of the beach was being enhanced manifold.

The DHA reiterated that DHA Waterfront Project was formalised after due consideration of multifaceted aspects, most importantly the value-addition of the beachfront.

He stressed that the master plan of the project envisaged provision of state-of-the-art entertainment facilities on the beach to cater to the requirements of recreation-starved middle and lower classes with a view to franchise and not to de-enfranchise them.

He added that the developments would add to the attraction of the beach and the recreation- starved population would have free and unhindered access to the sea.

The beachfront area in its improved yet pristine form is being made available to all and sundry, he added.The spokesman maintained that environmental protection; coastal conservation and town planning as per international standards were integral to the project.

He reiterated that the DHA was resolved to proceed ahead with the strategic waterfront plans taking positive cue from the intent and content of the detractors.—APP