Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari today emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustainable plan to tackle urban flooding in Karachi. During a meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr, he advocated for the adoption of international best practices in managing stormwater and sewage systems to protect the city from environmental degradation.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the meeting convened by President Zardari brought together key stakeholders including Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, several local government officials, and international water management experts. Discussions centered on developing a robust strategy for Karachi, inspired by successful sewer systems in cities like Washington DC, London, and Singapore.

Experts proposed the construction of a network of sewer tunnels beneath high-flood zones in Karachi to manage nearly 450 million gallons of sewage produced daily. This approach aims to minimize disruption to city traffic and property, while effectively handling stormwater to prevent flooding. Additionally, the proposed wastewater treatment projects are expected to have broader environmental benefits, including providing treated water for agriculture in Balochistan and supporting the fisheries sector.

The President called for a swift completion of the feasibility studies within three months, stressing the importance of environmental and financial support from international donors for these initiatives. He also highlighted similar urban flooding issues in Hyderabad, underscoring the need for a coordinated response to urban water management challenges across the region.