Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved Phase-II of the Karachi Safe City Project. The initiative will strengthen urban security through modern surveillance systems and advanced monitoring tools, including facial recognition cameras.
The meeting of the Sindh Safe Cities Authority was held at the CM House. The chief minister said public safety remains a top priority. He emphasized that technology-based policing is essential for a safer city.
Under Phase-II, a total of 2,314 smart cameras will be installed across Karachi. These include general surveillance units, traffic enforcement systems, and mobile monitoring setups. A major part of the system will use facial recognition cameras combined with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology.
Officials confirmed that 1,300 cameras will be equipped with ANPR and facial recognition cameras features. These will help law enforcement identify suspects and monitor criminal activity more effectively.
The cameras will be installed in all major districts of Karachi. District South will receive the highest number, followed by East, Korangi, Keamari, Malir, and West. The expanded network aims to improve citywide surveillance coverage.
The project also includes 56 mobile surveillance units, eight traffic monitoring cameras, and multiple response vehicles. In addition, drones and panic buttons will be installed to enhance emergency response.
Authorities said the system will be connected to a central command center for real-time monitoring. This integration will allow quick action in case of security threats or traffic incidents. The use of facial recognition cameras is expected to significantly improve identification and tracking capabilities.
The total cost of the project is estimated at Rs9.98 billion. Officials stated that negotiations helped save over Rs1 billion in procurement costs. The project is scheduled to be completed within 12 months, starting in May 2026.
The chief minister also directed authorities to avoid delays. He warned that rising global equipment prices could increase overall project costs.
Along with Karachi, proposals are under review for Safe City projects in other divisional headquarters, including Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, and Shaheed Benazirabad.
Officials believe the expansion of facial recognition cameras and smart surveillance systems will improve crime prevention, traffic control, and emergency response across Sindh. The government aims to build a fully integrated security network for better coordination and public safety.
In other news read more about: Sindh Safe City Authority Publishes Performance Report For October–December 2025
