KARACHI — Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has revealed that Karachi is currently facing a 50% water shortage, significantly impacting the city’s residents.
During a meeting with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott on Thursday December 19, 2024, Shah highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to address this crisis, including the K-IV water supply project and the construction of a new Hub Canal.
The Chief Minister emphasized that nearly half of Karachi’s population is forced to purchase water from alternative sources due to inadequate supply, which has been exacerbated by mismanagement and infrastructure issues.
He stated, “We have prioritized the restoration of the irrigation system to revive the agriculture sector and stabilize the economy,” reflecting on the devastating aftermath of the 2022 floods that displaced over 2.1 million people and severely affected educational institutions.
In addition to addressing water shortages, discussions at the meeting also focused on post-flood rehabilitation efforts, industrial development, and educational improvements in Sindh. CM Shah expressed gratitude for British support in these initiatives and reiterated his government’s commitment to economic growth through public-private partnerships.
To combat the ongoing water crisis, Shah urged for 50 million gallons per day (MGD) of additional water from the Hub Dam and outlined plans for a parallel canal aimed at enhancing Karachi’s water supply infrastructure.
The K-IV project is expected to provide 260 MGD of bulk water upon completion in June 2026, but until then, residents continue to face severe shortages.
The meeting underscored a collaborative approach to tackle critical challenges facing Karachi while aiming for sustainable recovery and growth in the region.