Karachi Division

Karachi: [ReNews Pakistan]
Karachi’s citizen run community library ‘Kitab Ghar’ has been pulled back from the brink of closure following an extraordinary wave of public support, as donations poured in rapidly and surpassed the required fundraising target within minutes.
The library management had earlier issued an urgent appeal, warning that rising rent costs were threatening the continuation of operations at its current location. Approximately Rs 500,000 was required to cover relocation expenses and ensure the library’s survival.
However, the appeal triggered an overwhelming response from supporters across Pakistan and abroad. Contributions were received through various local payment channels as well as international platforms, ranging from modest donations of Rs 500 to significant contributions as high as $1,350. According to the organisers, the initial fundraising target was achieved in just 53 minutes, and the total amount was subsequently tripled within three days.
The management described the response as unprecedented, noting that the surge of public support has provided immediate financial relief and strengthened the library’s operational stability. They also confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the landlord after an unnamed supporter intervened, raising the possibility that ‘Kitab Ghar’ may continue operating at its current premises for an additional 11 months.
While long term arrangements are still being explored, the library team said efforts are underway to secure a more sustainable location to ensure uninterrupted services in the future.
With the immediate threat of closure eased, the organisers are now focusing on maintaining engagement with their growing community of supporters. They also indicated plans for upcoming initiatives aimed at sustaining the library’s operations.
Expressing gratitude, the management credited citizens for safeguarding the library’s future, at least in the short term, stating that the collective effort had ensured ‘Kitab Ghar’ would continue serving the public.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
Governor of Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi has extended a formal invitation to Uzbek investors to explore Pakistan’s diverse investment landscape, particularly in Sindh, underscoring the province’s vast economic potential across multiple sectors.
He made these remarks during a meeting with an Uzbek business delegation led by Governor of Navoi Region Normat Tursanov at the Governor House on Saturday. The meeting was also attended by Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev, Chairman Businessmen Group Muhammad Zubair Motiwala, and Sohail Moten.
The Sindh Governor highlighted that the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone (SEZ) offers promising prospects for foreign investors, especially in manufacturing, logistics, energy, textile, and agriculture sectors. He assured the delegation that the government is committed to providing full facilitation and a business friendly environment within economic zones to attract international investment.
Emphasizing Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s economic hub, the Governor stressed the importance of strengthening trade linkages between Karachi and Uzbekistan’s Navoi region. He noted that enhanced cooperation could unlock new avenues for trade and industrial collaboration between the two regions.
During the meeting, Governor Normat Tursanov congratulated Nehal Hashmi on assuming office and extended an invitation to visit Navoi Region, including Tashkent, which was warmly accepted. He also pointed to Navoi’s rich historical heritage and tourism potential, proposing greater cultural exchanges, business forums, and joint ventures between the two countries.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment ties. They also discussed improving connectivity, noting that while direct flights from Uzbekistan to Lahore and Islamabad are already operational, there is a strong desire to initiate direct air links to Karachi to facilitate trade and travel.
Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev highlighted the growing trade relations, stating that Uzbek businesses are already importing pharmaceutical, surgical, sports, textile, and leather goods from Pakistan. He noted a strong demand in Uzbekistan for Pakistani livestock, particularly sheep and goats, as well as fresh fruits.
He further revealed that more than 3,000 Pakistani students are currently enrolled in universities across Uzbekistan, reflecting growing people to people connections. Additionally, Uzbekistan’s trade volume has witnessed a steady 7 percent growth over the past four years.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to enhance support for the business community and take concrete steps to increase bilateral trade volume, signaling a renewed push towards stronger economic and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has accelerated the pace of major infrastructure development across Karachi, setting firm deadlines for the completion of critical transport projects, including the Karachi BRT Red Line and Shahrah e Bhutto corridor.
During early morning visits to several ongoing project sites, the chief minister reviewed progress and directed authorities to ensure both speed and quality in execution. He made it clear that delays or substandard work would not be tolerated, emphasising the government’s commitment to improving urban mobility.
“Our priority is to restore smooth traffic flow and provide safe, reliable infrastructure to the people of Karachi,” Shah said, adding that both the Red Line and Shahrah e Bhutto are vital for the city’s transport network.
He announced that the Bhutto Expressway would be opened to traffic before Eid, describing it as a significant relief measure for commuters. Additionally, he instructed that all mixed-traffic lanes along the Red Line corridor be completed within two months.
Officials, including Transport Secretary Asad Zamin and TransKarachi CEO Zubair Channa, briefed the chief minister on ongoing work. They confirmed that repair, patchwork, and rehabilitation of mixed traffic lanes are underway, alongside road widening through adjustments to New Jersey barriers.
Expressing concern over recurring waterlogging issues, Shah directed authorities to develop a permanent solution and ordered that construction activities be carried out in multiple shifts to ensure timely completion while minimising inconvenience to the public.
On the Shahrah e Bhutto project, officials reported that approximately 93 percent of the 38 a kilometre stretch, from Jam Sadiq Interchange to M-9 Kathore Interchange, has been completed, with the remaining work expected to conclude within weeks.
The chief minister also ordered the immediate resumption of work on the Mosamiyat Flyover, assuring full provision of funds and resources. He noted that the project is crucial for easing congestion along University Road.
Further, Shah reviewed progress on the Munawar Chowrangi Underpass, being constructed to facilitate traffic flow from Kamran Chowrangi towards Gulistan e Jauhar, and directed officials to expedite its completion.
Separately, he inspected the Azeempura Flyover in Shah Faisal Colony and instructed that it be completed within 90 days. The project aims to ensure signal-free movement towards Jinnah Terminal and adjoining areas.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also briefed the chief minister on the Pehlwan Goth Road project, which includes the construction of a dual carriageway, improved drainage and sewerage systems, and installation of LED street lighting.
The renewed push reflects the Sindh government’s broader effort to address Karachi’s long-standing traffic challenges and modernise its urban infrastructure.