KARACHI: In a look back to Karachi’s history, significant developments in 1973, shed light on infrastructure, international relations, and domestic politics.
1. Karachi’s Jacob Lines Housing Complex: A Vision for ‘New Pakistan’
- On September 18, 1973, Finance and Development Minister Kamal Azfar revealed plans for the massive Jacob Lines Housing Complex, estimated at Rs400 million. A high-level meeting, chaired by Federal Finance Minister Dr. Mubashar Hasan, was convened to fast-track the project’s implementation.
- The complex aimed to comprise 1200 modern flats, symbolizing the emergence of a ‘new Pakistan.’ Azfar emphasized the prioritization of existing Jacob Lines, Jutland Lines, and Abyssinia Lines residents for flat allotment, with the remaining apartments designated for shelter-less individuals from other areas. Accommodations for the well-to-do would contribute to subsidies for the less privileged.
2. Strengthening Ties: Saudi Arabian Minister’s Visit
- On September 19, 1973, Saudi Arabian Minister for Haj and Auqaf, Syed Hasan Qutbi, embarked on a five-day official visit to Karachi from Teheran. He highlighted the interdependent happiness of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, expressing Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for the Muslim cause, Islamic unity, and solidarity.
3. Celebrating Unity: Tributes to King Faisal on Saudi National Day
- September 23, 1973, witnessed tributes to King Faisal of Saudi Arabia at a reception organized by the Pakistan-Arab Cultural Association to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s National Day. Attendees included the Saudi Consul in Karachi, Syed Saleh Fateni, and members of the diplomatic corps. Speakers stressed the need for closer unity among Muslim countries to elevate the banner of Islam and overcome setbacks faced in the 1967 Arab-Israel war.
4. Domestic Politics: Opposition’s Caution on Food Surcharge
- On September 22, 1973, the Leader of the Opposition in the Sindh Assembly, Shah Faridul Haq, cautioned Chief Minister Mumtaz Ali Bhutto against imposing an additional food surcharge in the province without consulting elected representatives. Haq urged the prompt convening of the assembly to involve the Opposition in discussions regarding the post-flood situation, aid amounts, and the necessity of new taxes.
This historical snapshot provides insights into Karachi’s infrastructure, international diplomacy, and local politics in 1973.
Source: DAWN
