Karachi Mayor Launches Mangrove Reforestation Initiative at Benazir Park

KARACHI — On Saturday, Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab launched a mangrove and tree plantation drive at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park, highlighting the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s (KMC) commitment to advancing environmentally sustainable initiatives across the city.

According to the Mayor, the Biodiversity Park project in Keamari is progressing well and is scheduled for inauguration by November 2026. This area is designed to provide students with an educational resource to understand mangrove ecosystems and the critical role they play in biodiversity preservation. The ongoing campaign at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park will see the planting of over 5,000 mangrove saplings, expanding its green footprint.

To enhance the park experience, the Mayor confirmed that boundary walls have been removed to provide citizens with an unhindered view of the green spaces and natural landscapes. He expressed gratitude to Arif Khokhar and the Forest Department for their assistance, noting that coordinated efforts are underway to promote the growth and conservation of mangroves across Karachi, Thatta, and Sujawal. Additionally, the Mayor mentioned that the city has successfully achieved two world records related to large-scale mangrove planting.

In addition to environmental projects, the Mayor addressed Karachi’s sewage management challenges, announcing that the Gutter Baghicha Haroonabad Sewage Treatment Plant will become operational by June 30, 2025, and that a 100 million-gallon per day (MGD) treatment facility is slated to activate by December 31, 2026. The Mauripur Treatment Plant will also contribute to these efforts by processing 54 MGD of wastewater, significantly improving the area’s environmental health. Furthermore, plans to transform Aladdin Park on Rashid Minhas Road into an urban forest were disclosed, alongside intentions to utilize 50 acres of KMC land for various greening and environmental initiatives.

To ensure compliance, the Mayor has vowed strict measures against unauthorized deforestation and illegal tree felling throughout the city. Regarding the K-IV water supply project, which has been awaiting approval from the Council of Common Interests since 2016 and has undergone multiple commencement attempts by successive prime ministers, the Mayor highlighted that Rs10 billion has been allocated for its execution in the current fiscal year. This initiative forms part of wider efforts to enhance local infrastructure and support Karachi’s environmental responsibilities.

Originally published in Dawn, June 14th, 2026

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