KARACHI: City Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Sehba Akhtar Road in Gulshan-i-Iqbal, a Rs200 million project being undertaken after more than two decades, offering much-needed relief to thousands of daily commuters.
The 1.8-kilometre-long road, originally constructed around 22 years ago, had deteriorated significantly due to heavy use and increased traffic, particularly in recent months owing to ongoing work on University Road.
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has now taken up its complete rehabilitation, including upgrades to the sewerage system.
Addressing the foundation stone-laying ceremony, the mayor underscored the urgency of the project, saying that people were facing difficulties, which prompted the KMC to initiate it on a priority basis.
He said the road was a key artery for residents of Gulshan-i-Iqbal and nearby areas, such as Block 13-D, Gulshan Chowrangi, Hassan Square and Sir Shah Suleman Road.
According to officials, the reconstructed road will have a width of 44 to 46 feet and will be built to accommodate growing traffic demands.
They added that the inclusion of sewerage upgrades is expected to resolve long-standing drainage issues, ensuring durability and improved living conditions for residents.
“The reconstruction and rehabilitation of Sehba Akhtar Road is an important project under which not only the road will be rebuilt, but the sewerage system will also be improved,” Mr Wahab said.
He said the initiative is part of a broader push by KMC to upgrade Karachi’s infrastructure and address neglected civic issues.
Several other major corridors, including Sir Shah Suleman Road, Rashid Minhas Road, and routes linking Drigh Road to Nagan Chowrangi, are also being considered for development or rehabilitation, he added.
He emphasised that the civic body is focused on delivering services without political bias. “The KMC believes in serving citizens without discrimination,” he said, adding that longstanding problems in multiple neighbourhoods are now being systematically addressed.
He also criticised “past administrations” for neglecting basic infrastructure and prioritising non-essential activities.
“In the past, only promises were made, but now practical work is being carried out,” he said. “Some elements only engage in criticism and divisive politics instead of focusing on solving public issues.”
Reaffirming his commitment, the mayor said that improving civic facilities remained the top priority of the current city leadership. He expressed optimism that sustained development efforts will bring lasting change to Karachi’s urban landscape.
Published in Dawn, April 2nd, 2026