Karachi Metropolitan Corporation initiates Rs600 million plan to prevent urban flooding ahead of monsoon season
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has announced the launch of a citywide cleaning and desilting drive of major storm-water drains (nallahs) to strengthen monsoon preparedness and reduce the risk of urban flooding across the metropolis.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, where officials reviewed ongoing development projects, municipal services and drainage infrastructure ahead of the upcoming rainy season.
According to briefings shared in the meeting, Municipal Commissioner KMC Abrar Jaffar informed that tenders for desilting and cleaning major drains have already been issued, with bid opening scheduled for Monday. Work will begin immediately after the procurement process is completed to ensure timely preparation before monsoon rains.
The KMC has allocated approximately Rs600 million for the citywide operation, underscoring its commitment to improving drainage systems and protecting citizens from seasonal flooding risks.
Mayor Karachi directed that a third-party consultant be engaged to independently monitor the cleaning work to ensure transparency, quality control and timely execution. He stressed that strict oversight would be maintained throughout the process to ensure proper utilisation of public funds.
During the meeting, the mayor noted that Karachi is currently undergoing multiple development projects, making it essential that storm-water drains remain fully functional to prevent damage to both ongoing and completed infrastructure.
“We performed well during last year’s monsoon, but this year we must deliver even better results. There will be no room for delays, negligence or complacency,” he said, adding that all departments must ensure timely completion of cleaning operations to avoid water accumulation and drainage blockages.
He further instructed that all relevant departments work in close coordination to ensure effective implementation within the stipulated timeframe.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including the Municipal Commissioner, financial advisors, engineering heads and media directors of KMC, who reaffirmed their commitment to improving civic infrastructure and strengthening monsoon preparedness in Karachi.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the city administration to modernise drainage systems and mitigate the recurring challenges of urban flooding during heavy rains.
