Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has come forward to defend Karachi’s reputation following a report that labeled it as one of the least livable cities. Speaking during a session of the Sindh Assembly, Memon questioned the logic behind such rankings, arguing that the city’s continued influx of people from across Pakistan proves its resilience and relevance.
Karachi’s Livability: A Reality Check
Sharjeel Memon responded strongly to the negative portrayal of Karachi in international reports. He questioned, If Karachi is truly unlivable, then why are people from every province migrating here in search of better opportunities?
He emphasized that while the city has its challenges, it remains Pakistan’s largest economic hub, offering employment, shelter, and opportunity to millions.
Karachi is not perfect, but it’s functional and alive. If the city wasn’t livable, would people continue to come here in such large numbers? he asked.
The City’s Role in National Development
Memon pointed out that Karachi continues to accommodate over 30 million people, providing access to water, garbage disposal, and employment. He acknowledged that issues exist but said they are not exclusive to Karachi.
Yes, there are problems. But we are addressing them. The city still functions. People go to work, families are fed, businesses run — that’s a sign of life, not collapse, he added.
Why Not Other Cities?
The minister also questioned why people from remote areas don’t migrate to cities like Lahore, Islamabad, or Peshawar if Karachi is supposedly so unlivable.
What makes Karachi their first choice? Clearly, it offers something — opportunities, jobs, hope, Memon remarked.
He stated that Karachi bears the burden of internal migration, absorbing people from all over the country regardless of their ethnicity, background, or education level.
Karachi’s Contribution to the Nation
Sharjeel Memon highlighted Karachi’s unmatched contributions:
- It hosts Pakistan’s largest ports and industrial zones
- It’s the base of major financial institutions
- It supports a diverse population from all provinces and backgrounds
- It’s a center for media, tech, trade, and innovation
Despite infrastructure and governance challenges, the city continues to operate and grow.
Criticism vs. Constructive Engagement
Sharjeel Memon emphasized that Karachi deserves fair evaluation rather than blanket criticism. He urged critics and media to focus on solutions rather than just pointing fingers.
Don’t judge the city only by its flaws — look at its strength, its people, and its unmatched economic role,he said.
He concluded by saying that Karachi, while struggling in some areas, is still a city of dreams for millions. It continues to prove its value by the sheer volume of people who choose to live, work, and build futures here.
Sharjeel Memon’s address served as a reminder that Karachi is not a failed city — it is a challenged one that continues to thrive under pressure. The minister’s argument was simple yet powerful: If Karachi were truly unlivable, it wouldn’t remain Pakistan’s most sought-after destination for opportunity seekers from every corner of the nation.
