Karachi: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has announced a major overhaul of the city’s water distribution system, deciding to gradually phase out water supply through tankers and hydrants. The decision, aimed at ensuring a more efficient and reliable water supply, was directed by Mayor Murtaza Wahab, who instructed senior officials of the Karachi Water Corporation to implement an alternative system that directly connects water lines to households.

According to KMC officials, the mayor has emphasized that all seven water hydrants currently operating in the city will be gradually decommissioned. In their place, water will be supplied directly through pipelines, ensuring that residents receive water at their doorsteps. The move is being described as a long-term solution to the persistent water shortages affecting Karachi’s population.

Mayor Wahab stated that while hydrants previously generated significant revenue for the city—approximately 300 million rupees per month—their contracts expired last year and will not be renewed. “Instead of relying on hydrants and tankers, which are temporary and inefficient, we are introducing a system where water reaches citizens directly via pipelines,” he said. This reflects a broader commitment to modernizing urban infrastructure while addressing the daily challenges faced by Karachi’s residents.

The mayor further noted that water scarcity in Karachi will be managed by supplying water to different areas on alternate days. “By distributing water systematically across neighborhoods, we can ensure that all areas receive an adequate supply,” he explained. He stressed that relying on tankers as a long-term solution is impractical, as it creates difficulties for residents and fails to provide a stable and predictable water supply.

KMC officials confirmed that detailed plans are underway to gradually transition the city’s water supply network. This includes mapping existing pipeline infrastructure, assessing household connections, and phasing out the use of hydrants and tankers in a structured manner. The initiative aims to eliminate the inefficiencies of the current system, reduce dependency on tanker services, and provide a more equitable distribution of water across all districts.

The move also seeks to address concerns regarding illegal water hydrants, which have been a source of revenue but have created inequities in water access. The mayor’s office has clarified that no new contracts for water hydrants will be issued, and strict measures will be taken to ensure that unauthorized hydrants are removed. This is expected to improve transparency in water management and reduce the operational challenges associated with the current system.

Experts highlight that Karachi’s water distribution challenges have been compounded by population growth, aging infrastructure, and unregulated tanker services. The mayor’s decision to phase out hydrants and tankers represents a strategic effort to modernize the water network and ensure more reliable access for residents. By focusing on direct pipeline connections, authorities aim to minimize losses due to illegal diversion, theft, and inefficiencies inherent in tanker-based supply systems.

The KMC has stated that during the transition period, water supply will be carefully managed to prevent disruptions. Residents are expected to receive water on scheduled days, with priority given to areas experiencing acute shortages. The municipal administration is coordinating closely with water utility officials to monitor supply levels, ensure equitable distribution, and address any technical challenges that may arise during the switch to pipeline-based delivery.

Mayor Wahab has also highlighted the social and economic benefits of the new system. By reducing reliance on water tankers, residents will no longer need to depend on costly tanker services, which often create logistical problems and uneven access. Additionally, the phased removal of hydrants is expected to improve revenue collection transparency while making the system more accountable and efficient.

The Karachi Water Corporation has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the new system, ensuring that pipelines are upgraded and connections are extended to reach underserved areas. Officials have confirmed that while the transition may take several months, the ultimate goal is to provide a sustainable and reliable water supply system that meets the needs of Karachi’s growing population.

In conclusion, Karachi’s plan to end water supply through tankers and hydrants marks a significant step toward modernizing the city’s water infrastructure. With Mayor Murtaza Wahab directing the phased implementation of direct pipeline distribution, residents can expect more reliable access to water at their doorsteps. By addressing inefficiencies, eliminating unauthorized hydrants, and introducing a structured water distribution schedule, the city aims to ensure that water scarcity challenges are managed effectively, providing a long-term solution for millions of Karachi residents.