A MULTIBILLION-dollar development scheme, spread over hundreds of acres, is in the works for Karachi`s coast. According to recent reports, the federal and Sindh governments are set to reclaim land for the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Development Zone, a project falling under CPEC`s purview, and estimated to cost $3.1bn, covering 687 acres. The state is thinking big here, as the proposed scheme will include a knowledge park, an industrial city and a desalination plant, as well as have improved facilities for fisherfolk. As per the Sindh chief minister, no human settlements will be affected by the project. While it may be premature to instantly denounce all such development plans, a project of such proportions does need transparency and public buy-in, especially from Karachi`s coastal communities and independent experts.

Two major concerns emerge with regard to this project. The first is the need to reclaim land. There is no shortage of barren land in Karachi and the rest of Sindh, including along the coast, so the need for land reclamation must be justified and explained by the state. Secondly, such a large scheme should be executed keeping in mind the area`s ecological balance. As experts have noted, sewerage and drainage issues may emerge, while there are also concerns that this venture and related projects may devastate what remains of Karachi`s mangrove cover. Already, according to Sindh government figures, hundreds of acres of mangrove cover have been lost over the past few years along Karachi`s coastline.

Mangroves play a key role in coastal cities, protecting them from storms, and nurturing aquatic life. Moreover, development must benefit coastal communities, and not just the elite. If done right, such developments can bring investment and jobs. But the project must be in harmony with the city`s already fragile ecological balance. The state needs to do its homework and let the people of Karachi know exactly what is being planned.