KARACHI, March 10: As part of his intensive campaign to generate funds for development and find out solution to the complex problems facing Karachiites, the City Nazim has mobilized philanthropists, financial institutions, multinational firms and journalists seeking their help in coping with the situation.

The Nazim, Naimatullah Khan, has identified the uncontrolled population growth and extra-ordinary influx of people from the entire country as the main problem.

In his communication, addressed to these institutions and philanthropists, the Nazim has sought donations and proposals to restore the past glory of Karachi and solve a maximum number of problems in order to provide Karachiites a trouble-free living.

He has sought proposals on an improved environment by establishing, upgrading and modifying parks, green belts, amusement parks, beautification of some 26 major roads.

Other projects for which he has called for funds and suggestions pertained to the development of coastal areas and Safari Park, rehabilitation of beggars, availability of hospitals, establishment of IT Park and Technology Island, city fire service, setting up of ultra-sound facilities and laboratories, availability of machinery and equipment for the cleaning of the city’s roads and drains, etc.

The Nazim has sent his message to 62 institutions and individuals.

Explaining the situation, Mr Khan has mentioned that Karachi was the country’s biggest city and the world’s sixth biggest. He has pointed out that its population, already 14 million, is growing at a rate of 4.8 per cent annually as against the national growth rate of three per cent.

He maintained that one of the reasons for the population explosion in this metropolis is the continuous influx of people from rural as well as urban areas on a large scale due to a greater unemployment rate in other cities of the country.

While expressing his delight over Karachi’s potential to accommodate a huge number of those in search of employment and a better living, the Nazim regretted that because of haphazard population growth, the city’s problems were on an increase. He pointed out that civic problems were on the rise in particular.

Mr Khan expressed his confidence that the city government would be able to solve all the major and many of the minor problems if the required funds and a reasonable level of cooperation were extended by these institutions and individuals. He said that he would appreciate any proposal leading to the solution of these problems and success of the beautification projects for the metropolis.

He pledged that Karachiites could be provided best facilities in health, education, recreation and other sectors if they came forward with practical support and cooperation.—APP