Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab announced on Sunday that the city government will restore the historic Lea Market within three months. He said this is part of the Karachi Municipal Corporation’s (KMC) broader development plan for the Old City area.
The mayor stated that 2026 has been focused on implementing the manifesto of the People’s Party. The KMC has allocated 700 million rupees for development works in the Old City, including markets, roads, and public facilities. The restoration of Lea Market is a key project in this plan, aiming to preserve the city’s heritage while improving infrastructure.
In addition to market restoration, Mayor Wahab said that work on the K-IV water project has begun. “We will resolve the chronic water shortage problem of Karachi,” he said, emphasizing efforts to provide a reliable water supply to residents.
The mayor also addressed issues of illegal water connections in the city. He noted that water is being stolen through illegal hydrants. A tribunal has been established to take action against those involved in water theft. “We will take strict measures against culprits,” he added.
Responding to criticism, Wahab said the city government faces accusations and threats daily due to its development efforts. He clarified that while some towns claim a scarcity of funds, KMC has sufficient resources for ongoing projects. “We are not facing a shortage of funds; we can only pray for them,” he stated.
The historic Lea Market restoration aims to combine heritage conservation with modern functionality. The project will improve facilities for vendors and visitors while maintaining the market’s traditional architecture. Local businesses are expected to benefit from the upgraded infrastructure, boosting commerce in the Old City.
Mayor Wahab concluded by highlighting the city government’s commitment to development and public welfare. The ongoing projects, including Lea Market, demonstrate a focus on both heritage preservation and modern urban needs, ensuring that Karachi’s historic areas remain vibrant and functional.
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