Karachi Inaugurates First Sponge Park to Combat Urban Flooding

KARACHI: The city has taken a significant step towards sustainable urban development with the inauguration of Pakistan’s first sponge park in Gulberg Town. This innovative green space, designed to manage rainwater, boasts the capacity to hold up to 100,000 gallons during monsoon events, according to experts from the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-P).

In collaboration with the Gulberg Town Municipal Corporation and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the WWF-P has transformed Jamali Park in Federal B Area, Block 8, into a water-sensitive area that enhances infiltration and reduces surface runoff. This initiative exemplifies how local governments can translate climate commitments into practical, demonstrable actions.

Spanning one acre, the redesigned park features rain gardens that temporarily retain runoff, bioswales, and permeable pathways, allowing the area to function like a sponge. Additionally, the park includes native trees and dedicated zones for biodiversity and pollinators, contributing to the ecological health of the urban environment.

The establishment of the sponge park is expected to significantly mitigate urban flooding risks, benefiting local residents and enhancing the city’s resilience to climate change. Future plans include community engagement initiatives to educate citizens about sustainable practices and the importance of green spaces in urban settings.