Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Tuesday announced plans to gradually phase out water supply through tankers and hydrants in the city, directing the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) to introduce an alternative pipeline-based distribution system.

Speaking to the media in Karachi, Wahab said that all seven hydrants in the city would be gradually closed, and water would instead be supplied through pipelines.

He emphasised that relying on tankers is not a permanent solution and causes significant difficulties for residents.

“Hydrants generated roughly Rs300 million in monthly revenue, but the contracts for these hydrants expired last year,” Wahab noted.

“New contracts will not be issued. Our priority now is to free citizens from dependence on tankers and provide a sustainable water supply system.”

The mayor instructed the KWSB to prepare the alternative system immediately, ensuring that every area in Karachi receives a regular water supply.

He said the shortfall caused by hydrants and tankers would be addressed gradually, and a reliable pipeline network would replace the current tanker system.

KMC officials confirmed that the decision to abolish the water tanker system and hydrants had been finalised, with instructions issued to senior KWSB officials to establish an effective replacement system.

Many neighbourhoods in Karachi are facing serious water shortages, forcing residents to depend on expensive water tankers just to meet their daily needs.

Wahab said that the move to a pipeline-based system will provide long-term relief to residents, ensuring that every household has steady and reliable access to water.