Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has approved a Rs. 21.53 billion package, including a Rs. 13 billion grant, to repair and upgrade Karachi’s road network managed by Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs).
The decision comes after TMCs highlighted severe financial constraints that hindered their ability to carry out road works across the city. A total of 409 roads in seven districts have been earmarked for repair. Of these, 400 roads will receive patchwork repairs, while nine roads with extensive damage will undergo full reconstruction.
According to official sources, the estimated cost for road rehabilitation alone is Rs. 10.93 billion, with an additional Rs. 1.64 billion allocated for related water and sewerage works, bringing the total road component to Rs. 12.57 billion.
District-wise, Malir has the highest number of damaged roads at 98, followed by West (81), Central (53), South (50), East (49), Korangi (39), and Keamari (39). Interestingly, Keamari has the highest estimated cost at Rs. 2.32 billion, slightly ahead of West at Rs. 2.31 billion, while East accounts for Rs. 1.85 billion.
Major allocations include:
| TMC | Allocated Amount (Rs.) |
|---|---|
| Manghopir | 1.75 billion |
| Gadap | 960 million |
| Baldia | 944 million |
| Mauripur | 858 million |
While most roads will undergo patch repairs, select routes in Gulberg, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Sohrab Goth, Orangi, Manghopir, Saddar, and Landhi will be fully rehabilitated to ensure long-term durability.
The approval of this substantial package is expected to ease commuting woes, reduce traffic congestion, and address longstanding infrastructure issues in Karachi, which has struggled with potholes and deteriorating roads for years.