Critics doubt Nehr-i-Khayyam’s EIA plan as construction continues in Karachi

Karachi's Nehr-i-Khayyam rehabilitation project, which is already under construction, has faced criticism from experts and environmental groups over the government's decision to seek an environmental review. Critics argue the timing of the request raises more questions than it answers, suggesting the move could undermine the project's purpose and effectiveness.

The project manager had asked Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) to examine the scheme and share any "environmental protection requirements, mitigation measures, approvals or other actions required under the applicable environmental laws and regulations." However, Sepa insiders have stated that it is "almost impossible" to conduct a credible and independent assessment of the project while construction is already at an advanced stage.

Opponents question the government's decision to approach Sepa at this stage, arguing that it raises concerns about the project's planning and environmental impact. Taimoor Ahmed, a deputy parliamentary party leader of the opposition Jamaat-i-Islami in the City Council, emphasized that conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) at this stage will only raise further questions about the exercise's purpose and effectiveness.

Experts noted that a credible assessment requires data on rainfall, meteorological conditions, and water modelling, all of which need to be gathered before construction begins. Sepa sources highlight the importance of these factors in assessing the project's environmental impact.

While Sepa sources doubt the feasibility of the government's request, a former Sepa official noted that the regulatory body still has legal authority to intervene if a project violates environmental laws or fails to obtain mandatory approvals under the Sindh Environmental Protection Act, 2014. However, the project's chief minister's adviser, Syed Najmi Alam, dismissed concerns, stating that the construction will continue.