KARACHI: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has initiated the establishment of multiple water tanks at key locations across the city in a move towards sustainable urban water management and flood prevention.

A statement issued on Wednesday said that this development comes as a result of a high-level meeting of the KMC Engineering Department, chaired last month by Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab.

“To ensure the proper channeling of rainwater, prevent accumulation on main roads and reduce the risk of urban flooding, the KMC has begun the initial phase of the project by creating water tanks at strategically selected sites,” it said.

These include, the statement added, the KMC Head Office, Polo Ground, the area adjacent to the Sindh Secretariat and Burns Garden.

According to KMC spokesperson Daniyal Siyal, the construction teams have already commenced work at these sites, with completion expected in the near future. “The primary objective is to ensure efficient usage of rainwater, which will no longer be left to stagnate on streets or damage public infrastructure,” he said.

The KMC, he added, is actively identifying additional locations across the city to expand the initiative.

“There are several sustainable options for utilising rainwater, including urban gardening, rainwater harvesting and other non-potable purposes. This approach not only promotes environmental responsibility but also strengthens Karachi’s resilience to seasonal rains.”

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2025