KARACHI: Expressing concern over the recent attack on a ranger's facility in Karachi, Altaf Shakoor, Chairman of the Pasban Democratic Party (PDP), highlighted the ongoing consequences of delays in the Safe City project for the city. According to Pasban Democratic Party, Karachi, a major commercial hub with over 20 million residents, continues to experience social, economic, and security challenges due to the project's prolonged implementation.

Shakoor emphasized that each year of delay increases vulnerability to terror incidents and street crimes while hindering effective traffic management and emergency responses. The Safe City project, he explained, is designed to be an integrated public safety system featuring high-definition CCTV cameras, intelligent traffic management, emergency call centers, and advanced communication networks to enhance urban security.

Despite improvements in law and order, street crime remains a significant issue in Karachi. A modern Safe City system could deter crime by increasing detection and prosecution rates, Shakoor noted. He also pointed out that the system would improve traffic management in a city plagued by congestion and frequent accidents.

Shakoor stressed that vulnerable groups, including women, children, and seniors, would benefit from enhanced safety measures. He argued that economic advantages, such as increased investor confidence and economic activity, are tied to improved security. Shakoor called on the federal and provincial governments to prioritize the Safe City project, emphasizing the need for adequate funding, transparent implementation, and timely completion to transform Karachi into a safer and more resilient city.