In a major policy shift, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation has decided to gradually end water supply through tankers and hydrants, replacing it with a pipeline-based distribution system across the city.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has issued formal instructions to the high command of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation to develop an alternative and sustainable water supply mechanism.
He directed officials to focus on ensuring that water reaches citizens directly through pipelines at their doorsteps, rather than relying on tankers.
Eliminate all hydrants in phases
Wahab said the city’s seven water hydrants will be gradually eliminated, and water distribution will instead be managed through a properly regulated pipeline network.
He acknowledged that water hydrants currently generate around Rs300 million per month in revenue, but stressed that financial considerations cannot outweigh public hardship.
No new contracts for hydrants or tankers
The mayor revealed that the contracts for water hydrants expired last year and made it clear that no new contracts will be issued.
“Our goal is not to continue the tanker culture but to get rid of it altogether,” he said.
Addressing Karachi’s chronic water shortage, Murtaza Wahab said the city’s needs will be managed by supplying water to each area on alternate days.
He said this system would help ensure fair distribution until long-term infrastructure improvements are completed.
Tanker system unsustainable
The mayor emphasized that providing water through tankers is not a permanent solution and has caused ongoing difficulties for citizens, including high costs and unreliable access.
He instructed water officials to prioritize infrastructure upgrades and planning so that residents no longer have to depend on tankers for basic water needs.
Murtaza Wahab said the decision reflects the city administration’s commitment to long-term, equitable water supply solutions.
He added that eliminating hydrants and tanker dependence would improve transparency, reduce exploitation, and bring lasting relief to Karachi’s residents.
