Karachi: The Pasban Democratic Party’s general secretary, Iqbal Hashmi, criticized both federal and provincial governments for neglecting Karachi in their recent budget allocations, calling it a betrayal to the city and a detriment to the national economy. In a statement issued on Saturday, Hashmi highlighted the pressing infrastructural and economic needs of Karachi, the country’s primary revenue generator.
Hashmi pointed out that despite being a major urban center, Karachi continues to lack modern infrastructure, including a much-needed underground rail or subway system. He lamented the stalled state of the Karachi Circular Railway and the poor condition of roads, which are plagued by potholes and neglect.
The city’s residents endure frequent water shortages and electricity load shedding. Hashmi also criticized the law enforcement agencies, describing the Karachi police as corrupt and ineffective, contributing to a deteriorating law and order situation.
Addressing unemployment, Hashmi called for the abolition of Sindh’s dual domicile system, which he argued discriminates against urban citizens. He urged the government to establish new industrial estates in Karachi and revitalize key economic projects like the Pakistan Steel Mills and Korangi Fish Harbour.
Hashmi emphasized the need for new universities, medical colleges, and technical education centers to enhance educational opportunities and job creation in Karachi. He advocated for the implementation of a safe city system and significant improvements in public transportation.
He called on the federal and provincial authorities to allocate substantial funds to overhaul Karachi’s infrastructure, asserting that investing in the city equates to investing in Pakistan’s economic future.