Karachi: The ongoing solid waste management crisis in Karachi continues to pose significant environmental and health challenges despite substantial annual expenditures, as per Altaf Shakoor, Chairman of the Pasban Democratic Party. Shakoor criticized the government’s inability to effectively manage the city’s growing waste problem during a statement issued on Sunday.

According to Pasban Democratic Party, Shakoor highlighted the failure of the Sindh government’s initiatives, including the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB), which took over waste management duties from the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation in 2016. Despite the involvement of foreign contractors, notably Chinese firms, the efforts to address the garbage accumulation have been inadequate. Shakoor pointed to corruption and inefficiencies within the system, suggesting that contracts may have been secured through bribes and calling for judicial intervention from the SHC chief justice.

Shakoor also noted the potential health risks associated with uncollected garbage, particularly during the monsoon season, which exacerbates the spread of communicable diseases and environmental degradation. He stressed the importance of effective waste management practices, such as those seen in countries like Denmark where significant portions of waste are recycled or used for energy recovery, and criticized the closure of Karachi’s Cogen plant, which was intended to convert waste to electricity.

In conclusion, Shakoor urged both government action to improve waste management and community engagement to prevent further environmental and health issues. He emphasized the need for immediate and effective solutions to ensure Karachi does not face the same severe conditions during upcoming monsoon rains.