Sindh Province

Karachi: ReNews Pakistan
Director General KDA Asif Jan Siddiqui has confirmed that the 1.2-kilometer Kareemabad Underpass is expected to open after Eid, likely in April 2026. The project, launched on December 30, 2023, faced delays due to the relocation of K-Electric lines, which temporarily slowed progress.
Originally planned for completion within two years, the underpass’s total cost has now exceeded PKR 3.8 billion. DG Siddiqui emphasized that once operational, the underpass will significantly ease traffic congestion, improve urban mobility, and provide smoother access to surrounding neighborhoods.
KDA teams are closely monitoring construction to ensure timely completion and maximize urban development benefits for residents. The project is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and support Karachi’s growing infrastructure needs.

Thatta: Renews Pakistan
Recent archaeological discoveries in Sindh’s coastal belt have once again highlighted the global historical significance of ancient port settlements in the Indus Delta, even as experts warn that climate change, sea intrusion, and coastal erosion are rapidly threatening the fragile land and heritage sites of the region.
The observations were shared by Dr Stéphane Pradines, head of the Indus Delta Excavation Project, at the conclusion of an excavation campaign in Bhanbore. The project was carried out by the Sindh Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives Department in collaboration with Aga Khan University and international partners from the United Kingdom.
Experts involved in the excavation noted that several historic port settlements in Sindh, including Bhanbore, Keti Bandar, Shah Bandar and Larri Bandar, are facing accelerated land degradation due to climate change impacts, seawater intrusion and continuous shoreline erosion. These developments are not only threatening the visible archaeological remains but also the submerged heritage structures in the delta region.
During the excavation, archaeologists discovered 249 cannonballs at the Jam Jasker site, along with historic inscriptions at the Thamban Wari Mosque and a rare collection of Persian pottery at Larri Bandar. According to experts, these findings reaffirm the strategic maritime and commercial importance of Sindh’s ancient coastal settlements, which once served as vital gateways for regional and international trade.
The conclusion of the excavation coincided with the launch of a mangrove plantation drive aimed at stabilising coastal land and protecting the environment. The initiative was inaugurated by Thatta Deputy Commissioner Sarmad Ali Bhagat and attended by officials from the forest and culture departments, archaeologists, environmental experts and members of the local community.
Speaking on the occasion, the deputy commissioner stressed that mangrove forests act as natural coastal defence systems that help reduce the impact of sea intrusion, storm surges and land erosion. He noted that the restoration of mangroves is essential not only for environmental protection but also for safeguarding historical coastal structures, underwater heritage sites and fragile archaeological remains.
Experts further warned that environmental degradation in the Indus Delta is accelerating due to climate change and rising sea levels. They emphasised that coordinated action by government institutions, conservation experts and local communities is urgently required to protect both the coastal landscape and the historically significant settlements that form a vital part of Sindh’s cultural heritage.

Karachi: Re News Pakistan
A high-level meeting chaired by Sindh Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah on Wednesday finalized the Karachi Special Road Rehabilitation Program under the Minister for Local Government’s initiative, focusing on the restoration and upgrading of major road infrastructure across the metropolis.
During the meeting, Murtaza Wahab, Mayor of Karachi, briefed participants on the completion of planning for the rehabilitation of 183 key roads falling under various Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs). He noted that these corridors function as critical traffic arteries and alternative routes, facilitating daily movement for thousands of commuters across the city.
The provincial minister directed the Municipal Commissioner to expedite administrative procedures and immediately initiate the tendering process to ensure the timely execution of the project. He emphasized that the program will play a significant role in revitalizing Karachi’s urban infrastructure and improving municipal services for residents.
Mayor Wahab further informed the meeting that solarisation of streetlights will be undertaken following the rehabilitation of the roads. The initiative will replicate the successful model implemented along Shahrah-e-Faisal, where solar-powered lighting has delivered positive outcomes in terms of energy efficiency, operational cost reduction, and improved road illumination.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Special Secretary Local Government Syed Azhar Shah, Municipal Commissioner Karachi Ibrar Jaffar, and Managing Director of Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, along with other relevant stakeholders.
Officials stated that the initiative is expected to enhance road safety, strengthen urban connectivity, and support the city’s broader infrastructure modernization efforts.