KARACHI — A place once known for the sound of gunshots is now echoing with the laughter of families and the bustle of food stalls. Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab made that contrast the centerpiece of his remarks on Saturday as he inaugurated a family festival in the city, pledging to restore Karachi’s historical heritage and draw the younger generation back to its public spaces.
A Changed Atmosphere
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the mayor reflected on how the area’s reputation has shifted. “There was a time when gunshots could be heard here, but now there are celebrations,” he said, describing the transformation as a sign of progress for the city.
Wahab noted that the site has already hosted a Bohra Food Festival, and that a women chefs’ festival is currently under way. More events are planned in the coming days, including a World Biryani Festival and, after that, a Pulao Festival — a lineup clearly aimed at celebrating Karachi’s food culture while keeping public spaces active.
Restoring Heritage to Attract the Young
The mayor said the government wants to bring the younger generation to these locations by restoring Karachi’s historical heritage. He credited a private bank for its cooperation in the restoration of Empress Market and vowed that “every effort will be made to make this place more active.”
He also defended the city’s road construction drive, arguing that it benefits ordinary citizens. “Critics will continue to criticise, however, development work should continue,” he said.
Crackdown on Encroachments
Turning to enforcement, Wahab said he has warned anti-encroachment staff that the Karachi Development Authority (KDA), the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and police must all work in unison to eliminate encroachments. Any officer found doing wrong will face action, he added.
Parking Fees Abolished
On the contentious issue of parking charges, the mayor said the government has decided that there should be no parking fees, and directed the town administration to ensure the decision is implemented.
He urged citizens to report any instance of KMC collecting parking fees on a road, promising that action would be taken. The announcements signal an administration keen to present a more open, accessible city — one where celebrations, not gunfire, define its public squares.
