KARACHI: The bustling district of Gulistan-e-Johar in Karachi recently witnessed the hasty inauguration of the Johar Chowrangi underpass, a move that starkly contrasts with the sluggish pace of surrounding development projects.
However, this abrupt action has left residents grappling with significant challenges and raising questions about the rationale behind such a swift inauguration.
One of the immediate challenges arising from the underpass inauguration is traffic snarls.
An ill-conceived temporary U-turn adjacent to the inaugurated underpass has led to daily traffic congestion, creating a predicament for commuters.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the quality of work in the underpass vicinity as the observers have noted non-standard construction practices on islands and footpaths.
In addition, the presence of uneven bricks within the underpass structure has also caught the attention of vigilant citizens.
Rather than effectively addressing water supply line leakages near the underpass, an unconventional approach was taken – soil was dumped onto the road to block water seepage into the underpass.
Unfortunately, this tactic redirected the water towards a nearby settlement, compounding existing concerns.
The Johar Chowrangi underpass was officially inaugurated by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, leaving citizens, particularly those residing in Gulistan-e-Johar, puzzled.
The inauguration occurred despite pending development work in the vicinity, prompting questions about the wisdom of such an untimely unveiling.
Speculations have arisen regarding the urgency of the underpass inauguration, possibly influenced by the approaching conclusion of the Sindh government, led by the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Initially scheduled for August 14, the inauguration was delayed due to the underpass’s incomplete state. Subsequently, with a change in leadership, the outgoing mayor inaugurated the underpass.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the rushed underpass inauguration, concerns mount about the fate of the surrounding incomplete development projects.
Residents are hopeful for a more measured and comprehensive approach that ensures the city’s infrastructure aligns with its envisioned progress.
Source: Hamariweb
