Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah Criticizes Urban Planners for Karachi’s Decline

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Saturday condemned urban planners for what he described as the ‘ruining’ of Karachi, a city he has witnessed expand and deteriorate throughout his life. Speaking at an event organized by the Sindh Master Plan Authority (SMPA), Shah emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to urban development.

In July 2025, a steering committee was informed that the new master plan for Karachi, the country’s commercial capital, would be finalized within two years. CM Shah remarked, “Making a master plan from scratch is easy. But considering Karachi’s deteriorated conditions, it requires a thoughtful and inclusive strategy.” His comments reflect a growing frustration among residents and officials regarding the city’s infrastructure and planning failures.

The implications of Shah’s statements are significant for Karachi’s residents, who have long suffered from inadequate public services, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. The criticism of urban planners highlights a broader issue of governance and accountability in managing one of South Asia’s largest cities.

Looking ahead, the Sindh government plans to convene further meetings with stakeholders to discuss the development of the Greater Karachi Regional Plan 2047. This initiative aims to address the pressing challenges facing the metropolis and ensure sustainable growth for future generations.