KARACHI: Expressing concern about worsening civic conditions in Karachi’s slums, Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor has urged the government to adopt pro-poor budgeting measures as these areas remain deprived of essential civic funds.

According to Pasban Democratic Party, Shakoor highlighted the severe imbalance in municipal fund allocation, where upscale neighborhoods receive substantial budgets for infrastructure, while slum areas, home to millions, are left with minimal facilities and investment. He pointed out the systemic bias in the Sindh Local Government budget, noting that wealthier areas like Clifton and Defence Housing Authority (DHA) benefit from rapid upgrades, while low-income settlements such as Orangi Town and Lyari face deteriorating infrastructure and basic facility shortages.

Shakoor emphasized that the disparity in resource allocation has created two distinct realities in Karachi, with high-income districts receiving funds for non-essential infrastructure, while slum residents struggle for basic necessities. He argued that the neglect of slum areas not only exacerbates poverty but also marginalizes those who form the backbone of Karachi’s workforce.

He noted that per capita spending on infrastructure in affluent areas is significantly higher compared to neglected districts like Lyari, where residents face severe water supply issues and lack regular garbage collection. Shakoor also highlighted the correlation between the absence of civic facilities in slums and the prevalence of waterborne diseases, which are rare in wealthier areas.

Calling for immediate action, Shakoor demanded an audit of local government spending to ensure equitable fund distribution. He urged the Sindh Local Government Department and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) to halt non-essential developments in affluent areas and redirect resources toward improving water, sanitation, and waste management in neglected slums.

Additionally, Shakoor demanded the establishment of one teaching hospital and one public university in every district, as well as freestanding emergency facilities in each town, to address the acute shortage of healthcare and education in these areas. He attributed the absence of such institutions to the unequal funding priorities that have deprived slum communities of essential amenities.