Karachi: Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab presented the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 on Tuesday in the City Council. Deputy Mayor Karachi Salman Abdullah Murad and Municipal Commissioner S.M. Afzal Zaidi were also present.
According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the mayor highlighted that the initiatives undertaken over the past two years for improvement, development, infrastructure restoration, and removal of encroachments in Karachi are yielding results for citizens. He noted that challenging decisions were necessary for the service of Karachi's residents.
The mayor emphasized that the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has consistently prioritized public service and is delivering better services in Karachi. Over the past two years, KMC has been steered towards financial stability. The 2025-26 budget mirrors the efforts and consistency of the past two years, with development projects selected in consultation with council members to benefit the city.
The mayor acknowledged the responsibilities entrusted by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and emphasized the fulfillment of expectations from both the chairman and Karachi's citizens. The PPP has demonstrated its commitment to resolving the city's issues.
Highlights of the budget include the integration of KMC employee salaries into the World Bank's SAP system, with pensions for retired employees to follow. MUCT (Municipal Utility Charges and Taxes) collection through K-Electric has resumed, with Rs. 1.7 billion collected this year and an expected Rs. 3 to 3.5 billion next year. Infrastructure projects include a road connecting Lyari to the port and shipyard, repairs on Hub River Road, and the construction of an overhead bridge on Korangi Causeway.
Long-standing dues for retired and deceased employees have been addressed, with Rs. 600 million paid out and all dues up to June 2018 cleared. KMC has also started converting its buildings to solar energy, with Rs. 220.2 million allocated for this initiative.
Renovations of historical structures have been completed, and further restoration is planned for six more buildings. New facilities include a modern meat section and expanded parking areas. Significant funds have been allocated for medical services and advanced equipment.
The PPP increased UC grants to empower local service delivery, and meeting attendees will receive travel allowances. Parks have been restored, and Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim will receive new amenities. Efforts for environmental sustainability include cleaning stormwater drains and banning plastic bags.
KMC is committed to enhancing services, infrastructure, and public spaces. Public-private partnerships have been initiated, and cost-saving measures are in place, including a fuel tracking system that has improved fleet management.
The budget session concluded with Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad chairing the remaining proceedings, where parliamentary leaders, opposition leaders, and council members shared their suggestions and views.