Karachi Accelerates Old City Revamp as 2026 Completion Target Set
The Karachi administration has accelerated work on its Old City Revamp, with Mayor Murtaza Wahab declaring 2026 as the “Year of Completion” for major infrastructure projects across the metropolis.
The foundation stone for the latest phase was laid on January 11, 2026, focusing on four of Karachi’s busiest commercial hubs that form the backbone of the city’s economy.
Project Overview and Commercial Impact
The Old City project targets high-density trading zones, aiming to modernize infrastructure without disrupting daily business activity.
| Target Area | Core Development Works |
|---|---|
| Jodia Bazaar | 2,600+ feet of new sewer lines and road carpeting |
| Bolton Market | 4,000+ feet of upgraded sewerage pipes and paving |
| Mithadar | 4,050 feet of drainage lines and paver block installation |
| Kharadar | 4,100 feet of infrastructure renewal and road repairs |
City officials say the upgrades will reduce flooding, improve access for traders, and extend road life in areas that handle thousands of commercial vehicles daily.
Infrastructure Highlights
The revamp is built on three core pillars: sanitation, durability, and aesthetics.
- Sewerage Overhaul:
Thousands of feet of high-capacity RCC pipelines are being installed to permanently address decades-old drainage failures and urban flooding. - Road Construction:
Around 850,000 square feet of new roads are being developed to withstand heavy commercial traffic. - Paver Block Technology:
More than 400,000 square feet of paver blocks are being laid in narrow streets. Unlike traditional asphalt, these blocks can be removed and reinstalled easily for utility repairs, avoiding repeated road damage.
Heritage Restoration: Reviving Old Karachi
A dedicated Rs. 100 million allocation has been made for restoring historic landmarks.
- Lea Market Restoration:
Work is underway to restore the colonial-era Lea Market to its original condition within 90 days, in coordination with traders to keep the market operational. - Next Heritage Sites:
Following the successful 100th-anniversary restoration of the Hassan Ali Hothi Market, similar Anglo-Mughal architectural revivals are planned for:- Machi Miani Market
- Empress Market, targeted for completion by January 31, 2026
Broader Strategic Goals
The Old City revamp is a key component of the wider Karachi Transformation Plan, valued at Rs. 95 billion.
Key linked initiatives include:
- K-IV Water Augmentation: Rs. 71 billion investment to strengthen water supply lines
- Water Tribunal: A dedicated court to prosecute water theft and ensure fair distribution
- “No-Dig” Policy: Utility companies including K-Electric, SSGC, and KW&SC must complete underground work before roads are finalized, preventing repeated excavation
Timeline and Completion Targets
- Main Old City infrastructure works: By June 30, 2026
- Lea Market and Empress Market: Expected by March–April 2026
What This Means
If delivered on schedule, the Old City revamp is expected to boost commercial efficiency, preserve heritage, and permanently fix drainage issues in Karachi’s historic core. City officials say the coordinated approach marks a shift away from short-term repairs toward long-term urban planning.
