Press Release Title: Senator Jam Saifullah Khan, Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources presiding over a meeting of the committee in Karachi.

Press Release Date: 4th May, 2026

The Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources met in Karachi on May 4, 2026, under the chairmanship of Senator Jam Saifullah Khan to review the progress of the Greater Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme (K-IV Project). The meeting was attended by Senators Asad Qasim, Quratul Ain Marri, Muhammad Aslam Abro, Poonjo Bheel, and Barrister Zamar Hussain Ghumro (Special Invitee). The Committee expressed serious concern over the prolonged delays, significant cost escalation, and issues relating to transparency, quality of work, and utilization of funds in the K-IV Project. The Chairman committee noted that despite the project’s critical importance for Karachi’s water supply, its progress has remained unsatisfactory, and accountability for lapses has yet to be determined. Officials informed the Committee that approximately 70–80 percent of the project has been completed. However, the cost has escalated from the original estimate of Rs. 25 billion to Rs. 171 billion. The Committee questioned the repeated design changes and the absence of accountability, particularly regarding the initial design prepared by consultants, against whom no action has been taken so far. The Committee was further informed that WAPDA assumed responsibility for the project in April 2021 and revised the design and PC-1 accordingly. The increase in cost was attributed to exchange rate fluctuations, rising input costs, and reliance on imported components. The project is now expected to be completed by 2026, subject to the availability of funds. The Committee took serious note of concerns raised by the World Bank regarding transparency and quality, particularly in pipeline works. It decided to invite representatives of the World Bank and relevant transparency organizations to the next meeting and formally seek their input. The Committee emphasized that such issues should have been proactively addressed by executing agencies. Members also highlighted systemic delays in federal projects in Sindh and stressed the need to identify and address root causes, including land acquisition issues, litigation, and security challenges. The Committee directed that complete details of contractors, subcontractors, and consultants be submitted to ensure transparency and accountability. The Committee recommended that funds for the project be released on priority and that the matter be placed before ECNEC for necessary approvals. It also decided to take up the issue of funding with the Planning and Development Division and urged the Government of Sindh to ensure timely provision of its share. --- During the meeting, a separate briefing was also given on the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP), with an estimated cost of Rs. 71.5 billion. The project is the essential part of the K-IV Project. The Committee was informed that the project is expected to be completed by December 2028, though practical timelines may extend to 2029. The Committee directed that detailed route plans and progress updates be shared in subsequent meetings. The Chairman expressed concern over growing public frustration due to delays and rising costs, emphasizing that timely completion of water supply projects is essential for the residents of Karachi. The Committee stressed the need for stronger coordination among all stakeholders and directed that any negligence or delays must be addressed on priority. The Committee resolved to monitor the project closely on a quarterly basis and reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and timely completion of the K-IV Project in the public interest.