A ‘City of Lights’ in need of repair

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan and its economic hub, is home to over 20 million people. Known as the “City of Lights”, it is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis brimming with rich culture, fascinating history, and a fast-paced commercial life. From its bustling markets to its towering skyscrapers, Karachi is a city full of potential and energy.

Yet, beneath this lively surface lies a major challenge: poor infrastructure. The city’s basic systems — roads, transportation, water supply, electricity, and waste management — are in dire need of improvement. These issues make daily life difficult for millions of residents and hold back Karachi from reaching its full potential as a modern and thriving city.

These problems are deeply personal to me, as they affect not just the city’s population but my own daily life. I remember one particularly chaotic morning when I was on my way to an important official meeting. Heavy rains from the previous night had flooded the roads, and what should have been a 30-minute commute turned into a three-hour ordeal. The car stalled in knee-deep water on Sharea Faisal, and like many others that day, I ended up pushing it through the flooded streets with the help of some kind pedestrians. That moment was not just frustrating but also a stark reminder of how poorly prepared the city is to handle even moderate rainfall.

Public transportation is another area where the struggles hit close to home. During my university days, I relied heavily on Karachi’s iconic minibuses. I often found myself squeezing into overcrowded, poorly maintained vehicles, holding on tightly as they careened through traffic at breakneck speed. These experiences were part of my daily routine, but they highlighted how far behind Karachi is in developing a safe and reliable transit system.

These challenges affect nearly every aspect of life in Karachi, from the way people commute to the way businesses operate. Addressing them is necessary, not just for the city’s growth but also for improving the quality of life for its citizens. Despite these struggles, Karachi remains a city of hope and resilience, with the potential to overcome obstacles and shine even brighter on the global stage.

Repairing the city’s roads needs immediate attention. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces are everywhere, making travel both difficult and unsafe. During the rainy season, streets often flood, turning into dangerous, waterlogged areas that are almost impossible to navigate. Traffic jams add to the problem, causing daily frustration, wasting time, and lowering productivity.

Similarly, piles of uncollected trash have turned many neighbourhoods into unsanitary and unpleasant places. I remember walking with my daughters to the local market one afternoon, only to find the street blocked by mounds of garbage. We had to turn back, a small but poignant example of how these issues hinder even the simplest joys of city life.

Solving these issues will require strong leadership, thoughtful planning, and substantial investment. Repairing roads, enhancing drainage systems to manage rainwater effectively, developing a robust and efficient public transportation network, upgrading water supply infrastructure, and implementing a dependable waste management system are major steps towards sustainable urban development.

However, change will also require active participation from the community. Citizens can play a key role by taking care of public spaces, following civic rules, and holding authorities accountable. I have seen this firsthand during a street art project I helped organise, where volunteers painted murals on walls that were once covered in graffiti. It was a small gesture, but it brought a sense of pride and ownership to the community.

Despite its challenges, Karachi is a city with enormous potential. It is a place of resilience, creativity, and ambition. Addressing its infrastructure problems is not just about fixing roads or utilities, it is about improving the lives of millions of people who call Karachi home. With the right focus, investment, and determination, Karachi can rise above these obstacles and transform into a vibrant, modern city that truly reflects its spirit and promise.

The writer is a seasoned journalist and communications professional. He can be reached at [email protected]

Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed in this piece are the writer’s own and don’t necessarily reflect Geo.tv’s editorial policy.