Key Takeaways
- JI has initiated construction and rehabilitation work on over 1,005 streets in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town.
- The project includes laying asphalt and paver blocks on 10.3 million square feet of roads.
- JI has also worked on youth centres, model dispensaries, and urban forests in the area.
JI Karachi chief Monem Zafar announced the commencement of construction and rehabilitation work on more than 1,005 streets and roads in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town. The project, which involves laying asphalt and paver blocks on 10.3 million square feet of roads, is part of JI’s ongoing efforts to improve the town’s infrastructure.
In addition to roadwork, Zafar highlighted the development of sports facilities, youth centres, model dispensaries, parks, model markets, and urban forests. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life for residents and promote community well-being.
Zafar stated that JI has already completed the re-carpeting of 42 roads and carpeting of around one million square feet of roads in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town over the past three years. Two youth centres and two model neighbourhoods were also built, with thousands of streetlights installed and various development projects, including the restoration of parks, completed.
The JI leader emphasized the importance of empowering local bodies to address people’s basic problems. He noted that despite a lack of powers and resources, JI has spent over Rs90 million on the welfare of town employees, including payment of medical, pension, bonus, and other dues. Damaged vehicles, snorkels, tractor-trolleys, and other machinery handed over to the town have been repaired and restored.
A water supply project was completed at a cost of Rs200 million, highlighting JI’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs. Zafar also mentioned that unless local bodies are empowered, a permanent solution to people’s basic problems is not possible.
Zafar praised the work carried out during the mayorship of Naimatullah Khan, particularly the construction of Rashid Minhas Road and other roads, which are still in excellent condition. He stated that JI has always used available resources honestly and as a trust for public service.
Despite the challenges, the people of Gulshan-e-Iqbal expressed confidence in JI’s leadership in the 2005 local government elections. However, the results were changed, and Gulshan Town was occupied. Despite this, JI continued its public service and is still working beyond its resources and powers.
Currently, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town faces several problems. In the past, the town comprised 13 union councils, while now it is limited to eight union committees. More than three years have passed since the local government was established, but there has been no substantial increase in the amount of Octroi Zila Tax (OZT). During the first two years, the town spent about Rs70 million from its own resources to pay employees’ salaries.
Zafar concluded by emphasizing the need for local bodies to be provided with adequate resources to solve public problems. He stated that unless local governments are empowered, a permanent solution to people’s basic problems is not possible.
Construction and rehabilitation work on more than 1,005 streets and roads has begun in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town under JI’s administration.
Monem Zafar, JI Karachi chief
Unless local bodies are empowered, a permanent solution to people’s basic problems is not possible.
Monem Zafar, JI Karachi chief
