KARACHI | Karachi Waterfront by Limitless | Residential

Metropole

July 5th, 2006, 02:52 AM

Khanrak, you're exactly right. When a builder launches a project he collects installments from the buyers which he uses to build the development.

Therefore the two developments by Limitless (Nakheel) and Emaar worth $40 billion will be collecting that much from Pakistani buyers. Is there so much in the hands of Pakistanis? I would say that they probably can invest that amount over 10-15 years.

Irrespective of whose money is being used it's a good thing that these highly experienced companies are launching these projects. They will soak up the market from the local builders who only build substandard products and force then to build to a higher standard which will benefit everyone.

Also the bulk of the $40 billion will be spent inside Pakistan to build the projects and the profit of the developers will only be a small part of the total cost. There will be a lot of employment and industrial activity generated and Karachi will be transformed into a world class city.

Another point I would like to make is that the bulk of the cost of constructing a building is the construction material. If it's badly designed and built it still costs almost as much as a good quality building. All you need is to spend 10-20% more and hire top class consultants to make it of international quality in terms of design and quality of fit and finish. This is what Limitless and Emaar will do.

We're very lucky to have these companies coming to Pakistan and we should welcome them with open arms.

Khanrak

July 6th, 2006, 05:42 AM

I definately agree Karachiite, but I felt that the articles made it seem as if $20Bil from Dubai was going to flood into Karachi. Emaar and Nakheel are amazing companies, nevertheless.

swerveut

December 25th, 2006, 07:12 AM

A render seems to have been posted on the www.limitless.ae website about this project:

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/4990/progkarachiou3.jpg

From this render, it seems likely that the location of this project will be this:

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/7811/khiwtrfrntvg9.jpg

a more zoomed out version (north is towards the bottom):

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/9193/khiprjt2ps2.jpg

December 25th, 2006, 07:29 AM

The render looks amazing to be honest!

The Cebuano Exultor

December 25th, 2006, 07:41 AM

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

OMG! Dubai Waterfront is going to get a twin brother in Pakistan! Cool!

I hope this project doesn't get re-designed a couple of times because I love how the masterplan looks in that render.

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Btw, is this a Nakheel project as well?

swerveut

December 25th, 2006, 08:41 AM

^^ heya, I dont think you should compare it to Dubai waterfront though cause I dont think there will be a lot of land reclaimed from the sea for this project. Its seems to be more about the western Karachi properties and the waterfront area near it. Nevertheless, it WOULD be pretty cool if it started competing with Dubai Waterfront in some more classier, Pakistani-styled way.

Also, the company that conceptualized this project is LIMITLESS of DW, not Nakheel.

siamu maharaj

December 25th, 2006, 12:41 PM

pakboy

December 25th, 2006, 06:01 PM

well i think nakheel is the same as limitless

pakboy

December 25th, 2006, 06:03 PM

siamu maharaj

December 25th, 2006, 09:58 PM

Limitless is Dubai World's (same company as DPW), nothing to do with Nakheel.

Pakboy: You surely aren't comparing Dubai to Karachi, are you?

swerveut

December 25th, 2006, 10:36 PM

25,000 ha.! That's like about thrice the size of Diamond Bar City! And they'd be spending $20 Billion for just 2,000 ha. And except much bigger investments for the rest of the 23,0000 ha. Ok, this just sounds impossible. Where is all this money going to come from? And more importantly, who is going to buy all this and live there? Go to Google Earth and make a square of 16 Kms. (10 miles), which is roughly equal to 25,000 ha. Now that square would be big enough for almost the whole of Karachi! I am talking about the major areas: Defense, Clifton, PECHS, Gulshan, Saddar, Korangi, etc. Now unless there's a plan of moving the whole of Karachi to this waterfront that I don't know of, it doesn't make much sense.

Now negating what I myself just said above, I think the place would be pretty open, and not congested like the current Karachi (we can't take out place to make an interchange if needed). It'd still be able to house around 1.5~2 million people. The first phase (2,000 ha.) would house probably 1/5th of that. I can think of many cities with the area of Karachi but hardly quarter of the population. Dubai is one. So I think it's a move in the right direction. Although I am still highly skeptical that there's enough money in Pakistan to buy houses there. If the whole thing is going to cost north of $100 billion, it'd surely sell for more than that.

25,000 hectares = 250 sq Km, or a square with abt 15-16 sq km size. I boxed it out on Google Earth and am posting it just for visualization's sake:

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/8273/khiwtftareagb2.jpg

This is no doubt a big area but it is only natural that in the future, Karachi would be expanding in this direction. This project to me seems more like a master-planning project than one which develops actual residential or commercial buildings. It is also not going to be developed outright, but it is planned to be developed over the next 10-15 years or so. As for the money, it is going to come through foreign investments and investments made by DPW through Limitless.
Who is going to occupy it and who will have enough money to buy houses there? Well, most of DHA is sold out, and theres rapid expansion still going on in Karachi. Also, massive expansion is currently also being carried out on the Karachi Port which should increase the amount of trade carried out through there, so I dont think there will be any problem finding people to buy the property. As for the expense, sure, the total project has a massive cost, but thats spread over a massive size. I am pretty sure that individual units would have to be economically priced so people would actually buy them. Thats for the investors to work out in advance and I am sure they would have done that. Karachi definitely has potential to support such a project over the next 15 years or so.
Also, Bombay has a Navi Mumbai on the side, Delhi has New Delhi on the side, Rawalpindi has Islamabad on the side, and Dubai's old city has the new Dubai on the side. Karachi surely has potential to support a newly planned area on its side even if it is almost as big as the city itself.

Overall conclusion: AWESOME project and good direction for Karachi to grow in as opposed to growing on the mangrove islands. I support this project 100% wholeheartedly.

December 25th, 2006, 10:57 PM

I agree, an expansion on the Western side is much better then on the East or even up North.

The Cape Monze (Hope I got it right Swerveut!) area could end up as a big tourist destination if planned.

But the only thing that concerns me is the Transport planning, how would a person commute from the Karachi Waterfront area to say Downtown Karachi?

EDIT: Swerveut: The area that you marked out in your post, doesnt the Hawkesbay and Taiser Town schemes fall under it?

UnitedPakistan

December 25th, 2006, 11:47 PM

Yes, I prefer expansion to this side rather than going east or north.

swerveut

December 25th, 2006, 11:59 PM

Yes Cape Monze is the right name.

And yes, the Taiser Town scheme, Hawkesbay, and Lyari-Expwy Resettlement project are all in the vicinity if not enclosed by the actual area of this project. I dont know the details of it though and most is just speculation based on the rendered shape of the bay in the Limitless picture and the fact that its going to be located towards the west of Karachi.

Transport shouldnt be too hard from there as already a highway runs towards the Northern Bypass from the Karachi Port to the area. Also, it can easily be connected to the Jinnah Bridge which is almost the meeting point for everything including the proposed Shahrah-e-Faisal Expwy. Also, towards the North, a few ring roads could easily connect it to Nazimabad and North Karachi, and again, the Northern Bypass. Yes commute might be long, but commute is usually pretty long in big cities. Its very expectable.

Red aRRow

December 26th, 2006, 12:08 AM

I think there are two natural 'directions' towards which Karachi of the future (next 50 years) is going to expand. One is towards Hyderabad along the Super Highway as already the next phase of DHA is going to be next to it. The other is towards this western side towards Baluchistan alongside the coast.

zee

December 26th, 2006, 02:17 AM

this is a great project for karachi and pakistan

are there any bigger renders

pakboy

December 26th, 2006, 03:56 AM

Limitless is Dubai World's (same company as DPW), nothing to do with Nakheel.

Pakboy: You surely aren't comparing Dubai to Karachi, are you?

yes i am, i am comparing there sizes, so basically most of the buyers will be investers probably from overseas.

and nakheel is also a company of dubai worlds

Sufi Pistol

December 26th, 2006, 02:54 PM

Fahad Bhai: Taiser Town scheme is on Super Highway falls under MDA(Malir Dev. auth.)(as far as I know) and Hawks Bay Scheme is a large area but is very small one as compared to the area Swervet highlighted in the google earth's image, just beside the Masoor, as you can easily zoom in and see the lines of plottings.

About the area swervet highlighted: Yaar this area also covered a large portion of Orangi Hills, which I think is a very good place for development if ever starts, so is teh Hub river.

Swerve, earlier in this forum had said that there was a security concern for KANNUP by this project, I must add that KANNUP is nothing as compared to the Masroor base and a lot of WEAPONS stored just above it along the road which leads to Hub chowki from SITE.
I dont know if I can share the photo of the Weapon store, about which I came to know by a private American site(Global Security). However I am sharing it, as this has already been publiced by Global Security and nothing left secret about it.
If it is against the rules of forum, then plz Fahad bhai or UPK edit my post.

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/pakistan/images/masroor-ik-br.jpg

Sufi Pistol

December 26th, 2006, 02:57 PM

And this HIGHLIGHTING is not from me...this image is shared directly from the site www.globalsecurity.org

Article link: http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/pakistan/masroor.htm

siamu maharaj

December 26th, 2006, 06:17 PM

yes i am, i am comparing there sizes, so basically most of the buyers will be investers probably from overseas.

and nakheel is also a company of dubai worlds
Yeah, that's what I said. Limitless is DW's, not the same as Nakheel. Which, of course, is anotehr company of DW's, but seperate from Limitless. I think I read somewhere that Limitless was created for operations in a few certain countries.

By the way, I also came across a piece which said DPW operates Port Qasim (or probably part of it). I never knew that! Certainly news to me!

Your Dubai vs. Karachi point I'll address in a longish post I am about to write.

siamu maharaj

December 26th, 2006, 06:43 PM

Ok, this might be a long post, but here goes.

Preamble: I am not against it or anything, as you people might know by now I love any big project, even if at a cost. Likewise, I love it. In fact, as some might remember, I said I wanted DPW to takeover Gwadar, just so that we get the petrodollars!

But, but, but. I am just a tad skeptical. This + Diamond Bar City is the size of the whole Karachi. Now since people are comparing this to Dubai, I'll address that first. Dubai is expanding rapidly for two reasons: tourism and business. They might at some point also invest in industries, but not so much at the moment. And also, Dubai's per capita income is about 15 times that of Karachi, if no more. So there really isn't any comparison. Karachi has NO tourism, and the industry and other businesses are not really expanding at any fast rate. I can't think of any major investments recently. Now, a whole new Karachi is being made. Where's the money going to come from? Those who mentioned Phase VIII, it and nearby areas are more than half empty.

What I am saying is that this just seems too big. Compare these to any of the projects by both these companies. They are several times bigger. Not even projects in Dubai come anywhere close. So my question is, what exactly is the plan of Emirati Arabs regarding Karachi? (DPW & Emaar are both gov. owned, at least partly). Ok, I am not saying it's some sinister plan or something, but what I am saying is that Karachi's too poor to support $150 billion 10-year plan (in addition to others). That's $15 billion per year. Which is 1/10th of our GDP. Things just don't add up for me. And please, either say something that answers this, or nothing at all. Don't give blanket statements like : Foreigners would buy/There's money/You are a moron, Umais/Industry is healthy. I mean, I can see feorigners moving to Gwadar and all, but Karachi, no. Foreigners buying land also doesn't mean jackshit. That's speculative buying, and actually HURTS the economy. And there aren't 3 million expats waiting to move to Pakistan either.

So, I hope I've been able to put across my question, and would appreciate a good discussion without any paltitudes and meaningless statements. Thanks.

pakboy

December 26th, 2006, 07:41 PM

umais, emaar and DW are fools, they have been doing this from the start, you have again started comparing the economys of karachi and dubai, that doesnt matter, look at there sizes. emaar has been making even bigger citys in saudi arabia recently and most sold out to forgeniers and was made in the middle of the deserts. these companies are not new to this, they do full research and feasibilitys before starting such projects, dubai was not expanding because of business and tourism 8 years ago but it was still getting flooded with projects.

swerveut

December 26th, 2006, 08:31 PM

By the way, I also came across a piece which said DPW operates Port Qasim (or probably part of it). I never knew that! Certainly news to me!

As far as I know, the Karachi Port is operated by Hutchinson Port Holdings of Hong Kong - people who I would've liked to take over operations of Gwadar Port as well other than DPW.

I am just a tad skeptical. This + Diamond Bar City is the size of the whole Karachi. Now since people are comparing this to Dubai, I'll address that first. Dubai is expanding rapidly for two reasons: tourism and business. They might at some point also invest in industries, but not so much at the moment. And also, Dubai's per capita income is about 15 times that of Karachi, if no more. So there really isn't any comparison. Karachi has NO tourism, and the industry and other businesses are not really expanding at any fast rate. I can't think of any major investments recently. Now, a whole new Karachi is being made. Where's the money going to come from? Those who mentioned Phase VIII, it and nearby areas are more than half empty.

What I am saying is that this just seems too big. Compare these to any of the projects by both these companies. They are several times bigger. Not even projects in Dubai come anywhere close. So my question is, what exactly is the plan of Emirati Arabs regarding Karachi? (DPW & Emaar are both gov. owned, at least partly). Ok, I am not saying it's some sinister plan or something, but what I am saying is that Karachi's too poor to support $150 billion 10-year plan (in addition to others). That's $15 billion per year. Which is 1/10th of our GDP. Things just don't add up for me. And please, either say something that answers this, or nothing at all. Don't give blanket statements like : Foreigners would buy/There's money/You are a moron, Umais/Industry is healthy. I mean, I can see feorigners moving to Gwadar and all, but Karachi, no. Foreigners buying land also doesn't mean jackshit. That's speculative buying, and actually HURTS the economy. And there aren't 3 million expats waiting to move to Pakistan either.

So, I hope I've been able to put across my question, and would appreciate a good discussion without any paltitudes and meaningless statements. Thanks.

1) Companies usually do a feasibility analysis before they take on a major project, I am sure these people would have conducted one before they launched this project.

2) Karachi has a LOT of potential. It didnt have tourism and was suffering from lack of investment because there wast adequate infrastructure or any attractions to invite people to do buisness here. Currently, the whole city is being transformed by infrastructure development projects and the like which I expect to keep happening in the future. So Karachi is transforming pretty fast and is already attracting a lot of foreign business. New projects that are currently going on like Creek City, Dolmen City and the like will further enhance the image of the city in the coming 10-15 years.

3) Dont ask where the money is coming from: Its coming from Arab investors.

4) Can Karachi support such a project? I dont see why not. DHA phase VIII is lying empty because DHA hadnt finished the infrastructure over there. Roads were broken, there were no water and electricity connections etc. DHA has only recently signed a contract with a foreign company to develop phase VIII so it should be filling up pretty fast now. Also, a testament to the supportability of such a project is that Phase VIII is completely bought out which is why DHA had to acquire new land near Super Highway. Also, all the new good apartments that are being constructed in the city are already all completely sold out and being traded on the market even before they have been finished. Karachi's population should continue to grow over the coming years and also the rising middle class of the city should be able to provide sufficient market for a lot of this project to be feasible even if there arnt any foreign buyers.

5) Foreigners buying land in Karachi is not impossible at all. If there is good real estate, people will buy it anywhere.

In conclusion, if things dont add up to you, read all the details again, maintain a positive outlook, and get past the mental block you have regarding this project. To all my reasoning, it doesnt seem to be impractical or bad at all. To reiterate, a very great project for Karachi.

swerveut

December 26th, 2006, 08:36 PM

Swerve, earlier in this forum had said that there was a security concern for KANNUP by this project, I must add that KANNUP is nothing as compared to the Masroor base and a lot of WEAPONS stored just above it along the road which leads to Hub chowki from SITE.

As far as I remember, the govt asked PAF to relocate parts of Masroor airbase some time ago. Also, the PAF base isnt a security threat to residents. Neither is KANUPP.

The threat I was mentioning however, is threat from a nuclear accident which is a possibility with a nuclear power plant. KANUPP is past its working life, and was recently refurbished and restarted again. It used to be located away from the city in the early days but over the years the city has crept up to it. If unfortunately some accident happens there, it would effect life in the whole of Karachi city. A Chernobyl-like disaster (which can easily happen with us clumsy Pakistanis) can completely switch off the light bulb in the whole of Karachi and force everyone to evacuate the city forever.

siamu maharaj

December 26th, 2006, 10:05 PM

I never said I had a mental block. I am sure my position should be clear by now. Please don't assume. I am FOR any kind of projects. I think you misunderstood what I was saying. So I'll answer your points, 1 by 1. I am NOT saying it's wrong, what I am trying to ask you'll see in a minute.

1) This is exactly my question. Whom do they see buying this? These places can house around 3 million in total. That's MORE than the population of Dubai, more than twice, almost as much as the whole of UAE's. Now, let's not fool ourselves, Karachi ain't no Dubai, nor would it ever be. The Dubai boom in 6 years has attracted not even half a million people, how many would Karachi attract? Are the predicting a shift? I'm trying hard to find an example where 3 million people shifted over 10~15 years ANYWHERE in the world, but can't. And that shouldn't include millions of poor workers moving to urban cities.

2) Tourism and Karachi will NEVER be used in the same sentence. Sorry, you got that totally wrong. Don't even TRY to argue on that. And I don't see any plans, whatsoever, in the future. I don't see any European coming to Karachi for shopping and sandy beaches, resorts and ending the day picking up a hot drunk girl at a nightclub. Not gonna happen. Or maybe gambling. What is in here for tourism? Nothing! Dubai is investing shitloads of money to attract people. That just won't happen in Karachi. Nor is there any natural beauty or any place of historic significance worthy of a trip.

2.5) New projects you mention? Again, real estate. Where's the industry? That's what I am saying. Let me again draw a parallel. Dubai's industry is tourism and business. Except for lip service and empty statements, I want specific details.

3) Money to BUY. $15 billion each year? That's a 10 percent increase in GDP right there. This figure doesn't make sense to me.

4) Why not? Ok, back it up by numnbers. And Phase VIII is just too small to be compared to it. Even if you add IX and X.

5) PLEASE! I answered that already. But here goes. Foreigners can buy the whole of Pakistan if they want, but it is speculative buying. Not this point again, or I am going to bang my head on the wall.

Lastly, I have a positive outlook. I just want an answer to point 1. The rest are just arguments. Not to forget, we have 2 cities in teh making at the same time (this + Gwadar). I personally have no knowledge of a city the size of Karachi being made from scratch, so I think I am justified in asking questions. Even projects in Dubai pale in size (go to the respective websites). And just to end, I don't expect anyone to answer point 1, so just leave it at this, I guess. Nice discussion, in any case. Hope I didn't irritate anyone!

pakboy

December 26th, 2006, 10:25 PM

umais, firstly you are wrong, dubais population 7 years ago was something around 500,000 not its 2 million+ thats a increase of more then 150% with more then 1.5 million people shifting in.
and no one is saying that all 100% occupancy in here will be forginers, im sure a big chuck will be locals.

as tourism, nightclubs, resorts, sandy beaches and shopping are a part of these kind of projects, even in saudi arbia, resorts have nightclubs and sandy beaches with half naked women on them, so if SA can attract tourism for such things, any country can.

and again like i said before, dubai's industry is business and tourism now, it wasnt before when the developments began, before it was in a worser state then karachi.

you also seem to be arguing about developments not selling in pakistan, you should come down to Lahore and the capital region, in the last 6 years there has been atleast over 10 million new plots/houses sold in brand in communitys in lahore, they have sprung up all over the suburbs, and went at high prices, alot of developments sold out in and around the capital is well.
look at bahria town and DHA projects in these 2 areas in the last few years, bahria town has way more then what this project is offering in the 2 citys (lahore and rawalpindi) and then there is another 30,000 acre project coming up in Lahore by abu dhabi group,
are you telling me all these investers are idiots to be poring money like that in such developments.

im sure you have heard of a feasibility study and im sure you know such big projects dnt get made without one.

you, me or anyone arguing with real estate masters like DW or emaar does not make any sense, they have far far far far far more knoladge then us in this field so i guess i will leave it there.

UnitedPakistan

December 27th, 2006, 12:17 AM

LMAO I cant believe I have to agree with Suhaib for once in my life.

swerveut

December 27th, 2006, 03:43 AM

We all seem to be clamoring over the fact that its an ENTIRE BRAND SPANKING NEW city the size of Karachi. However, we dont even know the full nature of this project as yet. I think this is merely a master-planning, infrastructure development project to make property available over the next coming years should there be market to buy them. And to me, it seems like if the quality is good, facilities are well provided, real estate would go like hotcakes in Karachi.

As far as population goes, well, again, this project is planned for the next DECADE! Pakistanis multiply like rabbits anyway and I see a brighter future for Karachi ahead in terms of business as well.

Also, all comparisons with Dubai are WRONG. Karachi shouldnt even be compared to Dubai in the first place! We should be comparing ourselves to Hong Kong or Singapore or even Mumbai. Dubai is a tourist destination or the Vegas of the East. Karachi is more a financial/industrial/educational city and we should develop on that forte instead of developing as a tourist hub. In 15 years time, I can see business in Karachi booming and lots of people moving out from congested areas into new open suburban developments like Karachi Waterfront.

UnitedPakistan

December 27th, 2006, 04:06 AM

And once they move out I want the old areas cleaned and hopefully even bulldozed by new developers.

alirox

December 27th, 2006, 08:56 AM

Red aRRow

December 27th, 2006, 09:01 AM

Also, all comparisons with Dubai are WRONG. Karachi shouldnt even be compared to Dubai in the first place! We should be comparing ourselves to Hong Kong or Singapore or even Mumbai.

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :nuts:

shah_476gb

December 27th, 2006, 02:41 PM

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :nuts:

I dont see why are we comparing Karachi with Mumbai when Mumbai is so much developed...has anyone seen its skyline...its is many times better than Karachi where we only have about 5 buildings which makes the Karachi skyline....Habib Bank, MCB and few more thats all...and u are dreaming alongside HK and Singapore..:nuts:

siamu maharaj

December 27th, 2006, 05:47 PM

Pakboy: There you go! Population statistics straight from the horse's mouth.

http://www.uaeinteract.com/news/default.asp?ID=134

As for SA, are you sure? I've heard of diplomatic enclaves, but nightclubs in the open? Ok, I'll have to check on that one. And half naked chicks? Ok, I REALLY need to check up on this now.

Now for Lahore - 10 million houses sold? That's more than the population of Lahore!!! Or if it was a hyperbole, it totally flew over my head. There's no way in hell that many houses were sold. I'm sure that's more than the total number of houses in the whole of Lahore and adjoining areas.

As for their knowledge, look up the words boondoggle and white elephant. The reason I didn't bring it up until now was that I didn't want to give the wrong impression that I think I know more than them (which of course I DON'T). What my question was, and remains unanswered, is, exactly which growth in economy do they see or plan that will support this?

Now let me give you examples so that you know:

1) Gwadar - New port, oil terminals, tax-free zone for commerce. They will support a new city.
2) Dubai - We know.
3) Bangalore/Hyderabad - IT. (look for their booming surrounding cities)
4) Chinese cities - Manufacturing.
5) Doha/Manama - Commerce, a bit of tourism.
6) Vegas - We know.
7) etc., etc.

Now, a city, at least the size that's half of Karachi is being made. Or the whole of Karachi, almost, if we count the whole 25,000 ha. Anyway, where are the plans that support it? I am sure there are, BUT MY QUESTION IS WHAT THEY ARE. If you look at the examples above, the huge growth was supported by big burgeoning economies. So big that anyone in the world can tell you what's happening in any of those places. Can the same be said of Karachi? Hell no. Such growth needs HUGE economic backing (of proportions I already mentioned), not a new sugar mill that was inaugurated in Korangi.

Again, I know you guys will regurgitate what's already been said, so just let it go.

UnitedPakistan

December 27th, 2006, 07:14 PM

Pakistani investors buy these properties and hold onto them. That is why more houses are being sold than the population of city. Also note expats are investing back home now at a very large rate.

siamu maharaj

December 27th, 2006, 07:31 PM

Yeah, I know. But 1 crore houses??? JUST in Lahore? You believe that? I surely don't. I'm willing to bet that the number of houses in Karachi is no more than 4 million, just for comparison's sake.

15 million people, average of 4 per house.

UnitedPakistan

December 27th, 2006, 07:42 PM

Intoxication

December 27th, 2006, 09:44 PM

Karachi is no Hong Kong or Singapore. The closest comparison is probably Mumbai but even Mumbai's economy is quite far ahead of Karachi.

Metropole

December 28th, 2006, 12:04 AM

I think that Umais is right to raise questions about the claimed size of the project and the money that it is being suggested will be invested. They just don't make any sense. But let's look at what may be happening.

For a start, in Pakistan people are very careless with zeros. Lakh, million, crore, billion are used interchangeably. For example, I'm 90%sure that when they say that $43 billion will be invested in Diamond Bar they actually mean $4.3 billion. Even in America no one will invest $43 billion to develop an island the size of Bundle and Buddu. That equates to $600,000 for each home (Rs. 3.6 crore/home assuming 75,000 homes on 15,000 acres with 5 homes/acre). And that figure is just to develop the place and doesn't even include the cost of building the houses. However, $60,000 (Rs. 36 lakh) makes more sense.

The second issue is that when a figure for investment is used what exactly does it mean?
- Will that much be invested by the developer?
- Is the figure the developer's investment + bank loan?
- Is that the total sales price for the land?
- Are they building homes and that is the total sales price for all the finished homes?

My opinion is that the humungous figures being thrown about are the total sales price for the finished product, whether land or completed homes. That is the total money that the buyers will pay to buy the product.

To answer the question about how long these projects will take to complete, let me tell you a storey. In 1978 I was 16 years old and my friends and I used to drive around DHA Phase 8. At that time most of the major roads had already been built and most of the plots had already been sold. That was 28 years ago and it is still mostly empty. It will probably take another 20 years before all the land is used up, for a total of 50 (FIFTY) years. DHA Phase 8 is 8,000 acres.

With all the new developments coming online – (12,000 acres DHA Phase 9, 15,000 Diamond Bar, 25,000 hectares (62,500 acres) Karachi Waterfront) and others, you can only imagine the time it’ll take them to get built up. It will not be less than 50 years.

However, how long it will take the land to sell is totally different from how long it will take to build homes there. Pakistanis love to buy land. It is like gold here. It will take maybe 5 years to sell all the plots in these developments. Depending on the price, everyone and his brother will buy a few plots, one for themselves, one for each of their kids, including as jehaz for their daughter’s wedding.

The plots will sell out, but it will take a few years before the infrastructure is built and even more years before the houses are built. In 20-50 years even people who are currently poor will be able to build nice houses, inshallah.

Metropole

December 28th, 2006, 12:20 AM

For those who say that Karachi is behind all the other cities, they should know that at one time Karachi was on par with the best of cities. 50 years ago it was probably as good as Singapore, 25 years ago it was better then Shanghai, 15 years ago it was much better than any city in India. Visitors from India used to be very amazed at the wealth on display in Karachi.

However, one by one all these cities moved ahead while Karachi collapsed to two monsters, violent jihad and ethnic hatred that tore the guts out of the city. The downfall of Karachi is a reflection of Pakistani society because whatever problems exist in the country, they get multiplied 10x in Karachi and the city pays the price. I might add that these problems don't have genuine roots in the hearts of the people but were actually promoted by the past rulers of the country in order to perpetuate their rule through a divide and rule strategy.

In the future as long as these monsters are kept in check Karachi has the energy and the wisdom to let bygones be bygones and to move ahead again and be the engine of growth for Pakistan.

Sufi Pistol

December 28th, 2006, 02:54 AM

^^^ very very true indeed....You have a great exposure on such difficult stuff....

swerveut

December 28th, 2006, 04:23 AM

Anyway, where are the plans that support it? I am sure there are, BUT MY QUESTION IS WHAT THEY ARE.

Dude, why dont you just email the company that is planning this project instead of banging your head here? Comeon, be proactive! Find out on your own! And let us know when u get the answers too. The company website it www.limitless.ae I am sure there will be some email addresses given there.

I dont think many plans have been finalised as yet, but yeah, do email and find out more.

siamu maharaj

December 28th, 2006, 08:41 PM

SUT: The reason I don't ask is that companies don't really give out their feasibility studies. And if the plans were worthy of telling, they'd have already done so. I really HATE to give another Dubai example, but say, like a planned Media City/Village (how I loathe this word!) or something like that. Secondly, I was just trying to have a discussion.

UP: I simply think that the figure is wayyyyy wrong, otherwise I have no problem with things selling. I'd love that. Heck, I'd invest in some too.

Karachiite: These figures are right, since the Arab companies gave them, and are also quoted on their sites. No chances of a typo there.

Lastly, yeah, it's sad that Karachi got left behind. But now that it has, that's fait accompli. Let's look to the future. And somehow HOPE these religious/political fanatics can find another hobby besides blowing shit up.

swerveut

December 29th, 2006, 04:40 AM

I hate useless arguments that end up remaining vague and overly philosophical without reaching a definite answer. Sadly, a vast majority of literate Pakistanis will discuss everything to death but never really look at (or be hesitant to look at) the sources for conclusive answers. So much waste of time with no work actually being done. Merely kick up the dust then let it settle without actually finishing the building.

I remember I had emailed Emaar once about Crescent Bay but they told me that it was in the planning stage then and would be officially revealed shortly. As far as this project goes, its seems to be in the planning stage too. Umais, you are right they may not reveal their study, but IF they actually end up launching this project, they MUST have conducted a through feasibility study prior to launching it. Otherwise, the company is just INCREDIBLY INCREDIBLY stupid and deserves to fail.

cntower

December 30th, 2006, 04:25 PM

Intoxication

December 31st, 2006, 03:30 AM

^^ I really want it to be built now!

When will this project commemce/finish?

cntower

December 31st, 2006, 06:31 AM

The sooner the better but you know better then me how things work in Pakistan...wait a while...something will turn up hopefully.

siamu maharaj

December 31st, 2006, 11:05 AM

It will take about 10 years! But that's the time to completion. Quite a lot of it would be up by 5 or 6 years. Though none of us would be posting about it here at that time.

Red aRRow

February 21st, 2007, 05:06 PM

Project : Sugar Land City, Karachi Waterfront

Area : 62,000 acres.

Location : Hawkes Bay. Karachi

Development : Shopping Malls, Plazas, Apartments, Town houses, Beaches, Resorts & Hotels.

Developer : Limitless (Dubai World).

Based on :

Sugar Land , Texas ( Sugar Land ranked as the "hottest" place to live within the state of Texas and third in the United States for 2006 according to Money magazine.[1] The city has the most master-planned communities in Fort Bend County, which is home to the largest number of master-planned communities in the nation. Sugar Land holds the title of "Fittest City in Texas" for the population 50,000–100,000 range, a title it has held for three consecutive years.

Resource : Daily Jang ( 19th-20th Feb. 2007)

http://www.dawn.com/2007/02/20/local7.htm

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v197/kt10208/Internet/02_08.gif

February 21st, 2007, 06:51 PM

^^

Based on :

Sugar Land , Texas ( Sugar Land ranked as the "hottest" place to live within the state of Texas and third in the United States for 2006 according to Money magazine.

siamu maharaj

February 21st, 2007, 08:14 PM

Along with Diamond Bar City, it'd be nice if both these cities are recognized as different cities, but part of the bigger metropolitan area. And I don't have any rational reason for that, just that I think it's cool.

Metropole

February 22nd, 2007, 06:07 AM

Master plan for $68bn project finalised
By Our Staff Reporter

KARACHI, Feb 21: City Nazim Mustafa Kamal said on Wednesday the master plan to develop a new city "Karachi Water Front Sugar Land City" on 60,000 acres at Hawkesbay has been finalised.

Talking to the journalists here on Wednesday, he referred to a meeting held in this regard in Islamabad. He said the project would cost around 68 billion dollars. The agreement for the water front project would be signed in March with Nafeel Development of Dubai, he added. [Should that be Nakheel (http://www.nakheel.ae/)?]

In reply to a question, the nazim said President Musharraf had approved the plan and this would be the country's biggest project which would provide job opportunity to millions of people. He hoped people would be hired not only from different parts of the country but also from abroad.

He said the concerned authorities had issued NOC for the construction of new city.

He said the meeting in Islamabad was also attended by Federal Ports and Shipping Minister Babar Ghori, Sindh Chief Minister Arbab Rahim, Chief Secretary Fazlur Rehman, KPT chairman, and representative of Nafeel Development and the Chief Executive of Dubai Islamic Bank.

http://www.dawn.com/2007/02/22/local27.htm

khanbhai1

February 22nd, 2007, 07:58 AM

any renders

Metropole

February 22nd, 2007, 08:49 AM

Limitless leads 25,000 Ha. Karachi Waterfront development

DUBAI, 5 June 2006... Dubai World has revealed that Limitless, its integrated international real estate developer, will spearhead the newly announced Karachi Waterfront development. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Islamabad, attended by H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan. The MoU to this effect was signed by Pakistani Minister of State for Privatisation and Investment, Umar Ahmed Ghuman and Dubai World Chairman Sultan bin Sulayem.

Revealing the details of the project, Chairman Sultan bin Sulayem said, “We are delighted to lead the development of the Karachi Waterfront project. This is a major project, involving phased development of the 25,000 ha. site, west of Karachi. It will be a new Karachi. Limitless’ focus on creating balanced developments for large urban communities will, we believe, ensure that the development meets the economic and social needs of the government and the people of Pakistan.”??

The CEO of Limitless, Saeed Ahmed Saeed added, “At this stage, the exact elements of the master-plan are being finalized considering the overall needs of the people and the best approach to develop a self-sustaining community.”??

Phase 1 of the project will involve an investment of USD 20 bn. over the next ten years for developing more than 2000 ha. of prime water-front property. Subsequent phases of the project are expected to involve much larger investments. Karachi Waterfront will evolve as Limitless prepares the master plan in line with local and Government needs. It will contain a defined and carefully weighted balance of residential, commercial, recreational and entertainment facilities. The new city will also be home to Special Economic Zones, creating a hub for trading, manufacturing and services industry. All components of the development will be supported by a world-class infrastructure and amenities. ??

The project is part of the Government of Pakistan’s initiative to relieve pressure on the existing city and attract investment and visitors to Pakistan.??

Karachi Waterfront is the first international project to be announced by Limitless since the company was officially launched in April, 2006. Company sources reveal that several other projects are in the pipeline, in Dubai and elsewhere, and will be announced shortly. ??
“The business of creating balanced developments is a challenging one. It is a relatively new science, which requires a great deal of research, flexibility and a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure that the balance sought is not only achievable but sustainable. In the coming months we hope to be able to reveal more details on other projects – but only when we are confident that we have found the best solution to address the needs of each community,” Saeed added.

http://www.limitless.ae/content/pressRelease2.aspx

Metropole

February 22nd, 2007, 09:00 AM

http://www.limitless.ae/images/prog_Karachi.jpg

Project Description

• The project is a joint initiative of Limitless and the Government of Pakistan to create a new, balanced waterfront development - Karachi Waterfront, on a 25,000 ha. site west of the existing city of Karachi

• The “new city” would contain a defined and carefully weighted balance of residential, commercial, recreational and entertainment facilities in state of the art, master-planned communities

• The development would also be home to Special Economic Zones creating a hub for trading, manufacturing and services industry supported by world-class infrastructure and amenities

• Phase 1 of the project will involve an investment of USD 20 bn. over the next ten years for developing more than 2000 ha. of prime water-front property. Subsequent phases of the project are expected to involve much larger investments

Scope of Work
• Masterplanning
• Design and development
• End-to-end project management and delivery ranging from feasibility analysis to services

http://www.limitless.ae/content/karachi.aspx

siamu maharaj

February 22nd, 2007, 09:37 AM

$68 billion as compared to the $20 billion figure given earlier (for partial development). So are they going to develop the whole thing in one go now? Seems like it. Guess would take around 15 years. Damn, that's long. SSC won't even be around to comment on that when it completes! I wonder how many freeways they'd build to connect it to city proper. Same question goes for Diamond Bar City. One single bridge won't do much + Kh-e-Ittehad is not wide enough to connect a whole city to Karachi.

Red aRRow

February 22nd, 2007, 11:43 AM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v197/kt10208/Development/02_06.gif

imran02feb79

February 22nd, 2007, 01:01 PM

the agreement has not been signed ... as reported in a newspaper here..

http://www.ummat.com.pk/leads_news/lead09.htm

http://www.ummat.com.pk/leads_news/lead09.htm

khanbhai1

February 22nd, 2007, 03:56 PM

the agreement has not been signed ... as reported in a newspaper here..

http://www.ummat.com.pk/leads_news/lead09.htm

http://www.ummat.com.pk/leads_news/lead09.htm

we know go to the dawn news link it says they will sign the agreement in march

dont know march of 2007 or 2010:lol:

Red aRRow

February 22nd, 2007, 05:01 PM

Man this chief minister and his goons don't want any development to be done anywhere in the province hence the intermittent roadblocks at every second corner. He wants everyone to live like people in the interior and worship these waderas for everything. The good thing is this asswipe is fighting a losing battle...Mushy needs to shove a big danda up his jealous ass.

The agreement will be signed next month and by that time Mr. Chief minister probably won't be able to walk properly...if you know what i mean.

siamu maharaj

February 22nd, 2007, 09:01 PM

Metropole

February 22nd, 2007, 10:39 PM

I was thinking, 68+43 = $111 billion. Over 15 years, that's, ON AVERAGE, $7.4 billion foreign investment per year just on these 2 projects. Since it'll start off slow, that'd be around $15 billion/year toward the end. Right now Pakistan stands at $4 billion total/year. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Like they say "When it rains it pours". It seems like manna from heaven is about to start falling on Pakistan in general and Karachi in particular. I'm not sure if I should be saying "samaitoe" or "lapaitoe".

khanbhai1

February 23rd, 2007, 01:05 AM

i got some names
dream land, platinum city, new Karachi or city Arabia

wat you guyz think

Mercenary

February 23rd, 2007, 02:33 AM

Can someone post a google earth picture to show me where exactly are they gonna build this

thanks

Metropole

February 23rd, 2007, 04:44 AM

As is clear from the newspaper reports (especially the Ummat article) the exact land has not been allocated for this project and the Sindh government is looking to see if it put the 60,000 acres together.

The location is going to be as marked in the map, to the west of Karachi in the Hawks Bay area. This is where the Karachi nuclear plant (KANUPP) is located.

Part of the area will be made up of land reclaimed from the sea.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/399342122_630d039ebc_b.jpg

Metropole

February 23rd, 2007, 05:06 AM

Someone has pointed this out before. 60,000 acres is equal to 16 square kilometers and this area would be as big as the square on the map below. If a blue chip company like Nakheel (Limitless) was not involved I would have thought of the project as a land scam.

Both the claimed size of the project and the amount of money promised to be invested don't make any sense at all. $68 billion is a lot of money and 60,000 acres is a very large area.

But I fully support the project. Even if only part of it is realized it would still be good.

I think that Pakistan is going to experience a massive boom in the near future and it may be that this whole project gets built sooner than anyone thought possible.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/164/399357765_fe866f0666_b.jpg

February 23rd, 2007, 08:01 AM

Lets stick to the discussion ..

siamu maharaj

February 23rd, 2007, 09:31 AM

Yeah, you marked that right. It's pretty big, though. It'd probably be much longer and extend to the back and a little to the right. I do hope they don't flatten those ridges.

TahaQ

February 23rd, 2007, 02:38 PM

Arent these proposed prjects a little too far from main Karachi? How are people living there going to travel to main Karachi areas? It'll take long commutes and it'll be a hastle.

Intoxication

February 23rd, 2007, 03:03 PM

^^ From what I can see, these projects will provide many facilities to the ppl living there so they wud not need 2 travel to 'main' Karachi areas.

TahaQ

February 24th, 2007, 07:18 AM

^^ From what I can see, these projects will provide many facilities to the ppl living there so they wud not need 2 travel to 'main' Karachi areas.

Its a different city altogether then? I mean a city as defined as everyone working together to sustain each other. Every part of a city is vital for the well being of the rest. Its like they work in tandem. So if this new project will be so self-subsisting, can we call it a separate town?

Intoxication

February 24th, 2007, 05:36 PM

Looks like it.

adzees

February 24th, 2007, 06:11 PM

yeah call it GKA.. lol Greater Karachi Area

khanbhai1

February 24th, 2007, 10:58 PM

yeah call it GKA.. lol Greater Karachi Area

how about old karachi cuz new karachi is worse than the present karachi:lol:

February 24th, 2007, 10:59 PM

Technically it should be called the Greater Karachi Area.

Mercenary

February 25th, 2007, 02:37 AM

or Greater Karachi Metropolitan Area

GKMA or Gikma :)

khanbhai1

February 25th, 2007, 04:53 AM

how about downtown karachi

Metropole

February 25th, 2007, 04:47 PM

Arent these proposed prjects a little too far from main Karachi? How are people living there going to travel to main Karachi areas? It'll take long commutes and it'll be a hastle.

If they build that suspension bridge from Clifton to Manora then the drive time to Sugar Land will be reduced to a fraction of the time that it takes to get to Hawks Bay now.

A plan for a bridge exists and I think that it will get built soon. It needs to be only one kilometer long.

siamu maharaj

February 25th, 2007, 07:12 PM

They would build that bridge. Nakheel would. Manora, when it completes, would look amazing. Beautiful resort connected thru a suspension bridge. A little Sydney-ish.

musiddiqui

March 18th, 2007, 12:45 AM

KARACHI: The owners of a hut at Hawkesbay beach as acquired an order from the Sindh High Court after filing a petition that the city government was demolishing huts and vacating goths for a beachfront project.

The division bench of the Sindh High Court comprising Justice Musheer Alam and Justice Yasmeen Abbasi issued notice to the Sindh Government, City District Government Karachi (CDGK) and others Friday on the petition.

It also restrained them from demolishing any hut without issuing a show-cause notice and the assumption of property till the next date. The SHC's division bench gave the orders during the hearing of a petition filed by Imran Ansari, the owner of a hut at Hawkesbay, and other identical matters.

Imran through Inayat Ansari advocate submitted that the CDGK planned to develop a Karachi Water Front and Sugar land City over 60,000 acres at the seafront and for such projects it had decided to demolish the goth and huts at Hawkesbay. He stated that in January 2001 the defunct KMC had enhanced the annual land rent which was challenged in the SHC. On October 4, 2006 the SHC had ordered the CDGK to collect the land rent at the old rate but despite the court order the CDGK had decided to cancel the allotments of those people who were not paying the rent at the enhanced rate.

He stated that his client was an allotee of plot No. 53-A at Hawkesbay since 1989 and the owner of the hut constructed on the plot. Despite the court order, the CDGK had cancelled his allotment and started demolishing the hut without any prior notice.

The applicants prayed the court to declare illegal the cancellation of the allotment and direct the respondents not to demolish the huts and dispose off families from the huts and goth. It also prayed the court to restrain the respondents from digging or making any excavation near the huts.

The SHC's division bench, after a preliminary hearing, issued notice to the respondents for a date in office with the direction not to take any action till the next date.

New assignment of judges: PPI reported Friday that the chief justice of the High Court of Sindh has directed District and Sessions Judge Hasan Feroz, waiting for posting, to join his new assignment as the judge of the Banking Courts III, Karachi, District and Sessions Judge Syed Zakir Hussain, waiting for posting, to join as the judge of Banking Court II, Larkana and District and Sessions Judge Farzana Anwar Shah, presently working as Additional District and Sessions Judge, Karachi, South, to join her new assignment as the judge of Banking Court II, Hyderabad.

Survey of Karachi Goths started: Sindh Revenue Minister Dr. Irfan Gul Magsi said on Friday that the Revenue department has started a survey of old goths of Karachi for their regularization.

Speaking to a delegation of residents of various surrounding goths of Karachi at his office, the minister said all old villages in Karachi would soon be regularised after the survey work was completed. The residents of these Goths would be given ownership certificates and all basic facilities such as health, education, water, electricity, etc.

Katchi Abadi meeting: Sindh Minister for Local Government and Spatial Development, Muhammad Hussain, will preside a meeting of the governing body of Sindh Katchi Abadis Authority at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 19. The meeting will be held at the Sindh Katchi Abadis Authority HQ Office committee room. ppi

Source: Daily Times (http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\03\17\story_17-3-2007_pg12_1)

ahadhayat11

March 18th, 2007, 07:35 AM

Most of that area belongs to kpt...so is kpt the benificiary from all of this...or our nazim(city gov) who gets work done in 8 months...but its all sloppy crap..

swerveut

March 18th, 2007, 10:08 PM

This sounds like a great project. I even support the name wholeheartedly. I have been to sugarland a lot of times, and that area is setting benchmarks in terms of urban housing developments. I wouldn't mind it one bit if a city patterned after it would be built anywhere in or near Karachi. Also, as far as naming goes, this town would be inspired from the original Sugarland so there is no harm in giving credit to it by naming the Karachi town Sugarland Karachi or Sugarland Pakistan.

Location seems good too. I hope some darned politician doesnt go mess it all up. Especially the CM.

asfar

March 19th, 2007, 07:49 AM

this project, creek city and marina, diamond bar city, and crescent bay by emaar would surely change the landscape of karachi...hopefully all the projects should materalize.

ahadhayat11

March 19th, 2007, 10:34 AM

this project is far from being started....there are too many different authorities that have land there and comprises the whole area...soo it will take atleast a few years for it to start...
as for the name sugar land...and even diamond city..or watever it is..thr projects in america that the minister of ports and shipping has come across and is really facinated by...thus he is namin this da same..

musiddiqui

March 23rd, 2007, 07:09 PM

gzWRhoew2vE

Sikandar

March 23rd, 2007, 08:31 PM

Wow.

swerveut

March 23rd, 2007, 10:33 PM

:shocked: :eek2:

you have GOT to see this VIDEO!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzWRhoew2vE

siamu maharaj

March 23rd, 2007, 10:54 PM

The Port Tower is part of this? What the ...!

Anyway, very impressive. Hopefully, it'll actually pan out. Would be another 10-15 years before it takes its final shape. Damn, that's long.

Again, amazing!

Red aRRow

March 23rd, 2007, 11:49 PM

Excellent!!

oogabooga

March 24th, 2007, 01:47 AM

:shocked:

himali

March 24th, 2007, 03:57 AM

:shocked: :eek2:

you have GOT to see this VIDEO!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzWRhoew2vE

wow!!! great stuff
next generation will be living with :banana:
and we just :cheers:
:lol:

siamu maharaj

March 24th, 2007, 09:41 AM

Can this thread be merged with the Sugarland thread? Why two threads for a single project?

asfar

March 24th, 2007, 12:22 PM

that was a really good video...this project should definately materalize

musiddiqui

March 24th, 2007, 01:48 PM

moderators please merge this thread with karachi waterfront

ArchiPak

March 28th, 2007, 07:19 PM

Two major projects in Karachi? What is that other project of 43 billion called?

punjab

March 28th, 2007, 08:34 PM

musiddiqui

April 6th, 2007, 03:09 AM

KARACHI: A delegation of the Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) called on Sindh Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim to discuss the 65,000-acre Karachi waterfront project.

The delegation was led by DIB Chief Executive Saad Zaman and Real Estate Advisor Atif Sheikh. The CM expressed keen interest in the project and assured cooperation at all stages. Zaman said that the investors of Dubai World and the Nakeel group have conducted an aerial survey of the entire landscape and found it suitable for the waterfront project.

The chief minister said that all legal formalities shall be completed before embarking upon this mega project to ensure transparency. He said he would personally prefer it if the investors prepared the outright purchase of the land instead of looking for equity, which is a lengthy process and shall unnecessarily delay the commissioning of the project. app

Source: Daily Times (http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\04\06\story_6-4-2007_pg12_4)

oogabooga

April 6th, 2007, 04:39 AM

April 6th, 2007, 06:47 AM

:lol:

siamu maharaj

April 6th, 2007, 09:18 AM

AHA!
Good shit, Sherlock.

oogabooga

April 6th, 2007, 04:29 PM

:tyty:

oogabooga

April 6th, 2007, 04:44 PM

KARACHI: A delegation of the Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) called on Sindh Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim to discuss the 65,000-acre Karachi waterfront project.

The delegation was led by DIB Chief Executive Saad Zaman and Real Estate Advisor Atif Sheikh. The CM expressed keen interest in the project and assured cooperation at all stages. Zaman said that the investors of Dubai World and the Nakeel group have conducted an aerial survey of the entire landscape and found it suitable for the waterfront project.

The chief minister said that all legal formalities shall be completed before embarking upon this mega project to ensure transparency. He said he would personally prefer it if the investors prepared the outright purchase of the land instead of looking for equity, which is a lengthy process and shall unnecessarily delay the commissioning of the project. app

Daily Times - Online Friday, April 06, 2007 (http://dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\04\06\story_6-4-2007_pg12_4)

furhan_h

April 6th, 2007, 04:50 PM

^^ ^^

you mean that the CM actually supported a development project in karachi? He must be really ill. Good.

UnitedPakistan

April 6th, 2007, 07:38 PM

^^ ^^

you mean that the CM actually supported a development project in karachi? He must be really ill. Good.
He said he would personally prefer it if the investors prepared the outright purchase of the land instead of looking for equity, which is a lengthy process and shall unnecessarily delay the commissioning of the project. app

He is screwing this one as well!

musiddiqui

April 13th, 2007, 07:10 PM

KARACHI: A division bench of the Sindh High Court comprising Justice Amir Hani Muslim and Justice Yasmeen Abbasi disposed off Thursday various identical petitions filed against the demolition of huts at Hawkes Bay Karachi.

Imran Ansari, Muhammad Muneer, Maria Javed and others through Inayat Ansari advocate, submitted that the CDGK planned to develop the Karachi Water Front & Sugar Land City on 60,000 acres at the seafront for which it decided to demolish goth and huts at Hawkes Bay.

They stated that in January 2001 the defunct KMC enhanced the annual land rent which was challenged in the SHC. On October 4, 2006, the SHC ordered the CDGK to collect land rent at an old rate but despite the court order the CDGK decided to cancel the allotments of those who were not paying the rent at the enhanced rate.

Ansari stated that his clients had been legal allotees of plots at Hawkes Bay for several years and the owners of huts constructed on the said plot. Despite court orders, the CDGK cancelled their allotments and started demolishing huts without any prior notice.

The applicants prayed the court to declare the cancellation of the allotment illegal and direct the respondents against demolishing the huts and evicting the families from the huts and goth. It also prayed the court to restrain the respondents from digging or making any excavation near the huts.

Manzoor Ahmed, counsel for the CDGK, stated that neither was there any proposed project of Sugar Land City at Hawkes Bay nor had the CDGK published any advertisement in this regard. He said that if the CDGK would decide to construct them it would follow the rules and would issue notice to the owners of these huts before starting demolition.

The SHC's division bench, on assurance of the CDGK counsel, disposed off all petitions and directed the officials concerned not to demolish any hut legally constructed on leased plots and follow the rules and regulations in such activities. ppi

Source: Daily Times (http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\04\13\story_13-4-2007_pg12_4)

siamu maharaj

April 13th, 2007, 07:56 PM

I love it how this happens with EVERY project. They plan everything without taking these matters into consideration. But seeing that Lyari Ex'way got made, I guess these projects will go ahead too.

ahadhayat11

April 13th, 2007, 09:55 PM

i did say it in the other thread in the international forum that the tallest building in the world what musharaf said the other day is part of this project and will be made by nakheel and is not KPT, that project is not happening right now, i got info from proper sources.

also in another phrase a seaport is going to be made in this new city with a massive new industrial area.

and sugarland city i think is just a small phrase in this project.

unfortunatly right now, this project isnt happening as dubai world and the gov. need to clear the land but villagers arnt moving.

As for the kpt thing, the tallest buildin being made is going to be made by kpt. Kpt is playing a huge part in this development. I dont know what sources you have, but the people who have told me are in the board of kpt....
The project is going ahead as proposed before.

ahadhayat11

April 13th, 2007, 09:58 PM

I love it how this happens with EVERY project. They plan everything without taking these matters into consideration. But seeing that Lyari Ex'way got made, I guess these projects will go ahead too.

you are right umais. This project will take a long time. From what i have heard, it is a long process before they can start building anything. We are talking about a few years minimum. So everyone, relax. There is way to much paperwork before we get started on this.

musiddiqui

April 14th, 2007, 12:09 AM

i read in a article that these hut owners will be compensated so y r they crying over their huts being demolished

April 14th, 2007, 01:08 AM

Typical Pakistani attitude, cry even if your getting money ! :lol:

ahadhayat11

April 14th, 2007, 01:25 AM

^^

i agree wid you. Maybe they want to make more money out of it. But, some people dont want to sell homes that they have owned for ages...i dont know..

April 14th, 2007, 01:27 AM

^^ They shouldnt have taken the money then!

furhan_h

April 14th, 2007, 04:05 PM

^^

Maybe the compensation is just a hoax or not enough. Like many a time.

ahadhayat11

April 14th, 2007, 07:31 PM

^^

Maybe the compensation is just a hoax or not enough. Like many a time.

we all are speculating right now. Give it time, things will clear out.

furhan_h

April 18th, 2007, 09:13 PM

http://pakistaniat.com/images/Karachi-waterfront-03.jpg

Check this out: http://pakistaniat.com/2007/04/18/pakistani-karachi-limitless-save-beaches-waterfront-dha-sahil-bachao-manora-hawks-bay-sandspit/

siamu maharaj

April 19th, 2007, 08:11 AM

This thread should be locked. This project is no more.

NewYork-wala

April 19th, 2007, 08:42 AM

Its canceled?

siamu maharaj

April 19th, 2007, 08:47 PM

Yeah

Metropole

April 20th, 2007, 04:35 AM

The project has not been cancelled. The CM of Sindh is haggling over the land that is required but one way or the other the issue should be resolved. But obviously it will take time.

siamu maharaj

April 20th, 2007, 02:02 PM

The project has not been cancelled. The CM of Sindh is haggling over the land that is required but one way or the other the issue should be resolved. But obviously it will take time.
Sorry, I thought the CM refused to give the land.

punjab

April 20th, 2007, 04:12 PM

its not cancelled, it happens with every pakistan project, dnt worry it will be made, i think it problems should resolve by end of this year, but expect a delay

musiddiqui

April 20th, 2007, 05:14 PM

KPT and CDGK are involved so i dont think babar khan ghauri/mqm will let the CM ruin this project

Red aRRow

April 20th, 2007, 06:26 PM

http://pakistaniat.com/images/Karachi-waterfront-03.jpg

Check this out: http://pakistaniat.com/2007/04/18/pakistani-karachi-limitless-blahblah-bullshit-bachao-manora-hawks-bay-sandspit/

What a bunch of morons. :nuts: :nuts:

shueyb

April 22nd, 2007, 10:37 AM

I read in another forum that this project will deprive the citizens of Karachi their free access to the beach?

siamu maharaj

April 22nd, 2007, 11:33 AM

I read in another forum that this project will deprive the citizens of Karachi their free access to the beach?
Yes, it would. Basically, if this is made, there won't be any beach left in Sindh. You'd need to go to B'tan. Clifton would be the only half-assed beach.

alirox

April 22nd, 2007, 12:33 PM

the projest is not cancelled the residents have filed a petition agasint it in the sindh high court and as soon as tht it over the roject shoulg begin

NewYork-wala

April 22nd, 2007, 03:20 PM

Why would it deprive the people of free access to the beach? Are they building it over the beach or something? People would simply have to drive through the new little city and get to the beach as always?
Or are they taking over the beaches and making them private? If so then its obviously wrong.

texanguy

April 23rd, 2007, 07:50 AM

Elimination of our identity and values are Indians goals. Indians are successfully projecting that Pakistan and Indian are the same and Urdu is actually Hindi and Pakistan was created by mistake. Let me tell readers simply that even if we resolve Kashmir issue with India, our identity and culture will be on threat. The only way India will win through media, art and culture integration. India will never admit Pakistan existence and its different culture values and identity simply because Pakistan is superior to India in arts, culture, language etc.

Following actions should be taken by Nationalists as soon as possible.

Dismantle PEMRA: Promoting Indian culture and dresses in Pakistani society should be ban. PEMRA is destroying our URDU and identity by allowing local channels such as ARY digital or AAJ who operates from third country that promotes Indian culture.
Deportation of illegal aliens such as Indians and Bengalis from Pakistan. Worked with governments to repatriate illegal aliens.
Ban on Indians Channels, Movies and cultural exchanges including ban on Pakistani artists going to India.
Upgrade Pakistani Film Industry and provide funds for improvement.
SAARC: We are not from South Asia and Subcontinent. Create new region name such as “South Central Asia” and bring Pakistan and Afghanistan only. Same as East Asian or Central Asia. Pakistan should not be member of SAARC.
Change of currency name: Rupees should be replaced by with some ancient name that still can be found in Indus Valley civilization so we can promote our ancient heritage. A rupee is an Indian currency.
Minimize opening of new border area for travel purpose with India. Established rules and monitoring procedures for Indian travelers.
Changes in Cities name that identical to Indian cites such as Hyderabad.

Finally Urdu language should be promoted in news, dramas and media advertisements with words that are not identical to Hindi.

what does any of this have to do with Karachi Waterfront?

Red aRRow

April 23rd, 2007, 03:22 PM

^^Somebody's gonna get banned soon. No points for guessing. :lol:

April 23rd, 2007, 03:50 PM

:banned:

oogabooga

April 23rd, 2007, 04:21 PM

:banned:

:lol: I love that smiley. He looks totally innocent while reading and then BAM! :lol:

siamu maharaj

April 23rd, 2007, 09:12 PM

:lol: I love that smiley. He looks totally innocent while reading and then BAM! :lol:
Don't laugh. That's exactly what's going to happen to you NEXT. I don't know why, but I get the feeling you are a Slovakian mole!

oogabooga

April 24th, 2007, 12:05 AM

Don't laugh. That's exactly what's going to happen to you NEXT. I don't know why, but I get the feeling you are a Slovakian mole!

:sly:

Slovakian? The flag is SLOVENIAN, you idiot! :lol:

I am one of the oldest members of MP! I was here before Pakistan even had a sub-section. The only two people I know of, who have been here longer than me are HasanB and CNtower, Hell I was here even before UP! when he used to be PU! :lol:

retard

April 24th, 2007, 12:41 AM

^^ I can clearly say it came out of your heart :lol:

As they say in urdu "Dil se nikli hai baat"

oogabooga

April 24th, 2007, 12:52 AM

^^ I can clearly say it came out of your heart :lol:

As they say in urdu "Dil se nikli hai baat"

Huh?

Say what now?

April 24th, 2007, 01:24 AM

I should try that Urdu software :lol:

paguma larvata

April 24th, 2007, 01:29 AM

I don't know if its just me. But this guy Umais seems like a real pain in the ass:weird: :weird:

j/k:hug: :hug:

April 24th, 2007, 01:40 AM

:rofl:

UnitedPakistan

April 24th, 2007, 01:47 AM

I don't know if its just me. But this guy Umais seems like a real pain in the ass:weird: :weird:

j/k:hug: :hug:
I know one person who is a bigger pain in the ass.

siamu maharaj

April 24th, 2007, 07:34 AM

I don't know if its just me. But this guy Umais seems like a real pain in the ass:weird: :weird:

j/k:hug: :hug:
You're not the first person to say that. But I do try to make up for it by trying to participate in discussions.

Sufi Pistol

April 25th, 2007, 02:49 AM

First of All guys....As this Project has been kicked from the queue so turning it into HUMOUR AND BULLSHIT won't be prohibited....??:P

:sly:

Slovakian? The flag is SLOVENIAN, you idiot! :lol:

I am one of the oldest members of MP! I was here before Pakistan even had a sub-section. The only two people I know of, who have been here longer than me are HasanB and CNtower, Hell I was here even before UP! when he used to be PU! :lol:

retard
^^ I can clearly say it came out of your heart :lol:

As they say in urdu "Dil se nikli hai baat"

DIL SAY JO BAAAT NIKALTI HAY ASAR RAKHTI HAY.....PER NAHIN, TAQAT-e-PERWAAZ MAGAR RAKHTI HAY :D
:banana:

I don't know if its just me. But this guy Umais seems like a real pain in the ass:weird: :weird:

j/k:hug: :hug:

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA I cant guess what's the actuall problem he has but...you are right anyway...

You're not the first person to say that. But I do try to make up for it by trying to participate in discussions.
:ohno: Hosla jigarr.....thora hath hola rakha ker....Ab kia kahoon....kuch suggestions hain teray liye laikin ....too tup jaey ga is liye ....nahin keh raha kuch....kuch analyze ker k kia problem hay...log kion teray peechay parray rehtay hain.....

mcboy1992

April 29th, 2007, 03:55 AM

:rofl: :rofl: Amaazing...this has got to be the best development for Pakistan to this date! I just hope this is done in a reasonable amount of time! Lets just prey to god we get to see the day that this project is complet..:cheers: :cheers:

himali

May 1st, 2007, 05:23 PM

As they say in urdu "Dil se nikli hai baat"

uh hu!! make it a bit touchy.

dil mai utar gai kia :ohno:

haan!!! baat he aisi thi :lol:

vazim

May 2nd, 2007, 11:23 PM

:sly:

Slovakian? The flag is SLOVENIAN, you idiot! :lol:

I am one of the oldest members of MP! I was here before Pakistan even had a sub-section. The only two people I know of, who have been here longer than me are HasanB and CNtower, Hell I was here even before UP! when he used to be PU! :lol:

retard

abbey itnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa purana ..... :nuts: :hahaha:

UnitedPakistan

May 3rd, 2007, 12:45 AM

Actually I was here before oogabooga on this UP account. I signed up around the same time as Cntower because he needed help and he asked me to come here. My old account was deleted due to 2 years of inactivity.

oogabooga

May 3rd, 2007, 01:10 AM

UnitedPakistan

May 3rd, 2007, 01:18 AM

Just clearing it up:lol:

SSC

May 3rd, 2007, 02:08 AM

:hm:

UnitedPakistan

May 3rd, 2007, 02:17 AM

Nothing like SPAM! Something that I did not miss during my break!

PurePaki

May 6th, 2007, 07:41 AM

is this project dead?

Zoltrix

May 6th, 2007, 02:59 PM

L and reclamation is proceeding at a swift pace along the coast at Clifton. An obvious sign that the multi-billion dollar, Waterfront Development Project, is doggedly being pursued by all beneficiaries of the scheme. According to reports, the DHA has plans to construct theme parks, marinas, expo centres, expensive hotels, and condominiums on the 14 kilometres of the beach area between McDonalds and the Golf club in Defence phase VIII. This project is called ‘Crescent Bay’ and is being undertaken by Emaar construction firm — incidentally the same firm given the contract to develop Buddu and Bundal islands. But the Crescent Bay project on a portion of the 135km shoreline of Karachi, is just the tip of the iceberg (or rather, a tip of the coastline).
More ambitious plans of developing large ‘zones’ along Karachi’s coast are under way and these have already received sanction from the highest office. According to a copy of a memo issue by the Prime Minister’s secretariat following a meeting chaired by the Prime Minister and all stakeholders of the project in April 2006, the PM had taken decisions to facilitate the investment plan of a UAE construction and development firm ‘Dubai World’ which proposes to develop Karachi’s coastal area in phases.

Indicating the actions to be taken by the ministry of ports and shipping, the ministry of defence and the government of Sindh, decisions were made at the time for another project for which it was decided that ‘Manora area in conjunction with Sandspit and the area behind it in the KPT’s western backwaters up to KPT’s land limits with Hawkesbay, be offered to the Group’. It was also decided at the same meeting that Manora Island be vacated by all agencies and handed over to KPT for the development programmes. The vacated agencies — which include the Cantonment and three strategic Naval bases besides KPT offices — were to be given alternative accommodation and office blocks on Cape Monz island, west of Manora.

It is planned to construct a five-star resort on Manora with a bridge linking Manora and its resort with Clifton. While reports published last year in the media had indicated that the Navy was agreeable to the proposal of shifting its strategic installations and handing over the island, Brigadier Syed Jamshed Zaidi, General Manager Planning and Development at the KPT, says, “At this point the issue is dormant. The Prime Minister had liked the suggestion given by Nakheel (a subsidiary of Dubai World) of converting Manora into a resort, but the matter now rests with the Chief Secretary of Sindh.” Nakheel is the real estate firm established by Dubai World which built the all famous man-made islands and resorts in Dubai that go by the name of ‘The Palm’ and ‘The World’, touted as the most ambitious reclamation projects in the world.

The obsession of turning Karachi into Dubai has reached a maniacal point for our rulers. And under President Musharraf’s dream of seeing Karachi “attain a higher stature in the world,” development plans for Karachi’s waterfront include astronomical figures of investment capital.

The third project reportedly being undertaken at the seafront is called ‘Sugarland City’ which is by far the most ambitious and to which is attached a tag of US$68billion as total cost. This budget — which exceeds the total outlay of federal budget and the entire country’s development budget many times over — is allocated for developing 25,000 hectares of land including 60,000 acres at Hawkesbay. The investment figure was stated in a press report by the City Nazim, Mustafa Kamal, who had declared that the authorities concerned have given a no-objection certificate for the construction of the project and the President had approved the plan which would be the biggest project undertaken by the country. The Karachi nazim had referred to a meeting in Islamabad in which the plan was finalized which was attended by Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Babar Ghori, Sindh Chief Minister Arbab Rahim, Chief Secretary Fazlur Rehman, KPT Chairman Ahmed Hayat and representatives of the development firm.

Investigations show that in its first phase 2,000 hectares will be developed which includes prime waterfront property west of Karachi including Hawkesbay, reaching out towards the backwaters, encompassing mangroves and skirting around the turtle beaches. An eye-opening video film detailing the entire project with virtual reconstruction, paints a dynamic coastline surpassing Sydney harbour in its picturesque value. The futuristic visuals which have been posted on youtube envisage three man-made islands, a new breakwater and countless bridges to link all construction providing easy access by the state-of-the art transport facilities besides many other ultra-modern amenities, too fantastic to be digested, let alone explained.

While a Master Plan for the existing city has still not passed the planning stage, these development plans for our coastline — a large part of which has been a strategic security area for hundreds of years — appear so outrageous and bizarre that it is difficult to give them any credibility. But when documentation is present to show approvals (not to mention eagerness) for all theses fantastic ideas, these schemes cannot be brushed off as just dreams envisaged by the witless.

These are tangible ventures and in one of its initial steps, the hut owners at Hawkesbay have been given notices of the imminent demolition of their property (owned by some for decades).

Not taking into consideration for the moment the ecological fallout of such mass scale development and marine life erosion due to land reclamation, how does one first equate the present state of disrepair in Karachi’s existing infrastructure – the breakdown of electricity, road and water distribution —with the billions of dollars being poured into a fantasy island? The country’s entire budget does not come close to US$68 billion just marked out for ONE project. Where is that money going to be recovered from? Investors in Pakistan, or from abroad? Is the recovery of that cost going to go towards eradicating all shanty developments in Karachi or rather, in the whole country? Is the existing industrial base in Karachi which is dwindling because of lack of basic infrastructure going to benefit from this vast exchange of money in a city named, ‘Sugarland’? And most importantly what happens to half developed projects if/when governments change?

There are just too many questions that come to mind after reviewing plans with figures well beyond our scope of conversion. The ‘for sale’ tag which our coastline and national assets are sporting, are not only unnerving the environmental activists but are also lending credence to even more chilling conspiracy theories too fantastic to pen down.

zees

May 6th, 2007, 08:43 PM

It is planned to construct a five-star resort on Manora with a bridge linking Manora and its resort with Clifton. While reports published last year in the media had indicated that the Navy was agreeable to the proposal of shifting its strategic installations and handing over the island

Red aRRow

May 6th, 2007, 09:08 PM

First of all, mods please merge this thread with Karachi waterfront thread.

It is planned to construct a five-star resort on Manora with a bridge linking Manora and its resort with Clifton. While reports published last year in the media had indicated that the Navy was agreeable to the proposal of shifting its strategic installations and handing over the island

I am sceptical about this bridge idea from a strategic point of view. The Karachi port has only one opening for ships to enter/exit. This bridge could be an attractive target to blow up to seal that entry/exit point in times of war and or for general terrorist and/or nutcases.

SSC

May 6th, 2007, 10:12 PM

First of all, mods please merge this thread with Karachi waterfront thread.

I am sceptical about this bridge idea from a strategic point of view. The Karachi port has only one opening for ships to enter/exit. This bridge could be an attractive target to blow up to seal that entry/exit point in times of war and or for general terrorist and/or nutcases.

true but isnt that true for any sort of development?

Red aRRow

May 6th, 2007, 10:47 PM

^^ Ummm nope I don't think so. I think it's on a case to case basis. this bridge right on the mouth of the opening of our port seems strange to me as the depth of the channel is not so much too. Any fallen debris of the bridge will certainly disrupt shipping traffic. But this is just a layman talking. I am sure the experts must have thought about it and will think about it before embarking on such a project. And I guess with all other ports opening up in other places...then this issue might not be of such importance anymore.

malpensa

May 8th, 2007, 12:29 AM

This idiot wrote the article as if Karachi doesnt need the investment.

ahadhayat11

May 8th, 2007, 04:05 AM

^^
i agree with you. As for the bridge, do we know for sure where it is being built?

zees

May 24th, 2007, 12:23 PM

This is the entire city of Karachi (one of the Mega cities of the World)
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/sugar15.jpg

Limitless plans (68,000 acres, nearly equal to Karachi & investment of just $69b)
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/suagr14.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/sugar11.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/suagr12.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/suagr13.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/Port-Tower.jpg

musiddiqui

May 24th, 2007, 01:06 PM

i think that $69 billion is just for constructing basic infrastructure and land reclamation

zees

May 24th, 2007, 03:58 PM

to develop a city equal to Karachi is not possible

May 24th, 2007, 05:48 PM

I dont think its impossible, it is bound to happen as Karachi has exausted itself in expansion up north and east.

Red aRRow

May 24th, 2007, 09:06 PM

I dont think its impossible, it is bound to happen as Karachi has exausted itself in expansion up north and east.

Hain....but I thought it was expanding towards the North East ...along superhighway towards Hyderabad.

NewYork-wala

May 25th, 2007, 12:32 AM

Holy crap... Thats how big this new city is supposed to be?!?!?

musiddiqui

May 25th, 2007, 01:41 AM

Hain....but I thought it was expanding towards the North East ...along superhighway towards Hyderabad.

no this is being constructed on the west of karachi towards hub balochistan

ahadhayat11

May 25th, 2007, 07:01 AM

^^
ladies and gentleman...i have bad news.... the karachi waterfront plan has almost been scrapped... the city gov isnt really progressing fwd with this and kpt may b backing out as well...

ps: my source is verrry reliable...but i cant name anyone ...i hope things come up but this projects looks like its not going to come up...and even if it does...it wil take atleast 4-6 years for it to start

May 25th, 2007, 07:15 AM

And what is the source?

Metropole

May 25th, 2007, 07:30 AM

The following news item appeared in today’s paper. I don't agree with the negative tone of the report but it surely implies that the project is going ahead. If the project is delayed it would be because the Dubai investors are scared away by the political tension in the country.

Also, as Musharraf's grip on Pakistan weakens, the cave dwellers of the country will feel more confident in sabotaging all development projects. E.g. the Sindh CM was very uncooperative about this project so now he may be able to have his way.

Sugarland City brings bitter taste to Karachi beaches

More portions of beachfront to be privatised; city may soon be deprived of its most popular recreation spots

By Sidra Rafique

Karachi

The coastal area of Karachi is on the brink of a massive makeover. According to documents received by The News, a new project by the name of Sugarland City is nearing its launch stage. The master plan of Sugarland City involves “development” of most of the city’s public beaches, such as Hawkesbay and Sandspit as well as Manora and Cape Monze.

If this project is allowed to go ahead, the city’s main public beaches will be privatised as will one of the main recreation spots of Karachi — despite the hue and cry created by various public quarters.

The project has been initiated by “Limitless”, which is the first integrated real estate developer launched by “Dubai World” - a private developer. “Dubai World” happens to be the parent company managing and supervising a portfolio of businesses and projects. “Sugarland City” is going to be the first overseas project for “Limitless”.

The first announcement of the project came on Dubai World’s website on 5th June, 2006, where it stated that Limitless will develop the Karachi Water Front project. This was followed by the news that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by Pakistan’s Minister of State and Privatisation and Investment Umar Ahmad Ghuman and Dubai World chairman Sultan Bin Sulayman.

The (MoU) was followed by a high-level meeting held in Islamabad on June 24, 2006, which was chaired by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz. A number of important directives were given to different ministries including those of Ports and Shipping, Defence, as well as the government of Sindh.

It was decided in this meeting that, since the area indicated by Dubai World is very large, the development may start in phases. According to the documents available, in the first phase Manora area, along with Sandspit and areas behind it in the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) western back waters, upto KPT’s land limits with Hawksbay, would be offered to the group.

In the second phase, while developing the Hawksbay Beach front, it would be ensured that a few portions are left open for the general public for recreational purposes. This would mean that the people would be restricted to limited areas for enjoyment purposes.

At present, the beach not only serves the purpose of recreational activities, but individuals also have huts located there, which are given to them on lease. The most important point related to the huts in the meeting was the premature cancellation of land leases, “after thoroughly examining the situation.”

It was proposed in the same meeting that there should be a proper mechanism for shifting the navy and cantonment board’s facilities located at Manora to the Navy land at Cape Monze area.

After the meeting, these directives were forwarded to the government of Sindh on 7th October, 2006. From here, the work gained momentum according to the dates provided in the documents. There were reminders from the District Coordination Officer (DCO) City District Government Fazlur Rahaman to Executive District Officer (EDO) revenue, CDGK. This reminder termed the directives from the Prime Minister to be of ‘high priority’.

Through out the above work, there has never been any ‘official’ announcement from the federal government related to the Sugarland City project. Nor were there any reports in the media related to this mega project. However, on 22nd February, 2007, City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal briefed journalists about the project and also gave details of the project being finalised with an agreement being signed in March 2007.

It was also said that the project has the approval from the President. This was for the first time that the project was officially announced and got coverage by the media.

This project involves an area of 60,000 acres of area with a total investment of 68 billion US dollars that has been approved by the Federal government. The first phase of the project would involve investment of $2 billion over the next ten years. It is also expected to involve much larger investments in the later phases.

According to the latest reports on the project, notices have been issued to all those hut owners coming under the project’s jurisdiction. The notice states that all those huts that are in violation of the hut by-laws would have their leases cancelled with immediate effect whereas the leases of those huts that are not in violation will not be renewed as and when their term expires.

http://thenews.jang.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=57569

siamu maharaj

May 25th, 2007, 09:01 AM

Actually, this city may seem very big areawise, the population of this place would be a fraction of Karachi's. Around 2 million. Except for the Asian cities, that are crowded, most cities in the world have about 2~3 million people in the area occupied by Karachi, give or take.

As for this plan, I don't think it'll go ahead. Maybe a very neutered version of it, but not the whole of it.

May 26th, 2007, 02:36 AM

As many as 200,000 poor people living in the Union Council-8 (Keamari) will be uprooted if the multi billion dollar Sugarland City project is implemented, Mubarak Baloch, Nazim UC-8, the area where the project will be built, told The News. Public resentment has started to grow on this project which is being seen as one that will uproot many to serve a few.

The elected representative of the area where Sugarland City will be built has said that no effort was made to take him or the residents of the area into confidence by the government. “UC-8 has 104 Goths (villages) under the jurisdiction of Karachi Port Trust, City District Government Karachi and the Board of Revenue but unfortunately we have not been taken into confidence by the government regarding Sugarland City,” he disclosed.

The Nazim of UC-8 told The News that a meeting of his union council was held on Thursday where a resolution showing concern about the project was approved unanimously. Copies of this resolution are being sent to Sindh Chief Minister, Dr. Arbab Ghulam Rahim, Governor Dr. Irshad-ul-Ibad, City Nazim Mustafa Kamal and Chief Secretary, Government of Sindh, Fazalur Rehman.

However, many comment that this may be a attempt in futility.

“UC-8 has 9 Dehs (hamlets), including Deh Lal Bakar, Deh Mindiari, Deh Mun, Deh Allah Bano, Deh Chatara, Deh Gabopat, Deh Mochka, Deh Gondpass and Deh Mawaich and every deh has several goths (villages). Musharraf Colony and 500 Quarters also known as Gulshan-i-Benazir are also included in the area. The radious of UC-8 extends up to 80 sq km and it will be destroyed by Sugarland City,” Mubarak Baloch added. The mega project would also lead to demolishment of 970 huts on the Sandspit/ Hawkesbay beach.

The western part of Sandspit/Hawkesbay is an open sandy beach, extending for about 10km. The beach composes fine and coarse particles of sand and according to one estimate, more than 100,000 people from Karachi and upcountry visit the area annually.

Many of these people come and spend their time at privately owned or leased huts.

These huts are now also under threat. Under the grand Sugarland plan, the huts will be eventually removed to make way for the development of this project. This is a tricky proposition.

“Every hut is valued at Rs 2-10 million and is owned by national and multinational companies, embassies and also locals. During June-August, most of these huts are frequented by people and provide livelihood to local population. But with the advent of Sugarland City, people will be rendered jobless,” said Nadir Baloch who owns a hut in Sandspit/Hawkesbay beach.

Times are changing fast and the once peaceful area is now becoming less secure, partially due to the political situation in the city. Chowkidars at the Sandspit/ Hawkesbay beach complain of rise in theft and robbery. “If somebody is looted on the roads, chowkidars at the huts are usually held responsible by the police,” said Liaquat Ali, 28, a chowkidar at a hut owned by businessman Ashraf Lakhani. He has been a chowkidar at the hut for 18 long years but complains about the highhandedness of an ethnic organization. There are allegations that this is being done to scare away hut owners. So far, this cannot be proved.

But what can be proved is that hut owners are actively being discouraged from staying on. “The annual tax we paid two years ago was Rs 600. Last year it was raised to Rs 25,000 per annum. Now the authorities are not ready to accept even that amount because they want to make us defaulters and evacuate us,” he said. “We have filed a case in a court of law against such excesses,” he added.

Amazingly, no Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) that is a legal requirement of all mega projects has been carried out and nobody knows how the area would be provided water, electricity and other amenities.

“I think the most important thing is not to have isolated projects in the city but to relate this to the overall land use and infrastructure resources in the city because any development is relative to whatever exists in the city,” said Perveen Rahman, an architect and director of Orangi Pilot Protect-Research Training Institute.

“The location of Sugarland City is where there are many old Goths (villages) where people live and the right to live is much more important than the right of recreation. Then nobody knows from where the mega project will be provided water and other amenities. They always make claims about self-electricity but we know this will not happen,” she concluded.

****

Apparently, this project will have a lot of opposition. 200,000 people is not a small force to deal with.

May 26th, 2007, 02:39 AM

If these people want they can work out some compensation deal, but I dont think it would be possible.

Red aRRow

May 26th, 2007, 02:42 AM

kbboy post the source of the article please. Thanks.

May 26th, 2007, 02:45 AM

here you go.
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=57732

I think there are lots of missing elements in the proposed project. Like what exactly will be built, what would be the terms and conditions, where would they get the resouces, what will be the compensation to the people,what will be the right of the government and the people and what would be the right of the investor, etc etc.

If they need to go ahead with this, these issues would have to be clearly addressed and soon before the situation goes out of hand.

Red aRRow

May 26th, 2007, 03:09 AM

200,000 people is not a big number to re-locate considering the fact that an area almost the size of current Karachi will be developed on international standards and with a complete master plan.
I think more people were re-located during Lyari Expressway project than this.

Metropole

May 26th, 2007, 04:35 AM

The newspapers only report on the potential problems of every project, never on the benefits. Jobs being created, boom in construction industry, millions of people building homes and moving to a desolate area, first class infrastructure being built etc.

It's always a case of the glass being 10% empty, they never look at the 90% full. If there's no development they'll cry, if there's development they'll cry even louder. Every project is a conspiracy against the country.

Since the media expanded so massively in Pakistan all you see is mourning and grumbling. Negative people are a massive pain in the backside.

Toronto_guy

May 26th, 2007, 07:14 AM

I am 100% agree with Karachiite comments. Same hue and cry was raised during Lyari Expressway Project. Why they just manuplate the negative things? why they dont want progress in karachi. Is that ruined hut looks great and impressive? is that area is very developed? So please let them do this project.

zees

May 26th, 2007, 07:49 AM

Even, Balochistan Assembly rejects Sonmiani Port project

zees

May 26th, 2007, 08:02 AM

Anyway, some more details about the project from old threads

"Spadework has started to bring up a new city, along the Northern Bypass, to make one of the world's most modern city.

This city will be totally insulated from North (Balochistan) and Karachi, he pointed out.

This city will have all the present modern day facility - from an international airport to tax-free industrial zone for non-toxic industries.

Brig Nasir giving an outline of the new city said that it will have four Towns - China Town, Maktoum Town, Mahatir Town and Faisal Town besides five-star hotel, filtration, desalination and recycling plants, diplomatic enclave, bus terminals, Olympic stadium, middle income group apartments, international trade banking, expo complex, education complex, jurist enclave, graveyard, government officers residences - to name a few.

He pointed out that all future development would be based on sound infrastructure which includes sufficiency of water, efficient sewerage system and forward planning for at least 20 years".
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=227041&page=2

"The PM has approved the construction of a 5-star resort at Manora." The resort would be linked with Clifton, Sandspit and Hawksbay via a bridge"
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=263540

"Four model towns proposed to be established on either side, he said a 46 kilometre long road which will be generally below Northern Bypass (starting from Hub River Road) and in the North up to Northern limits of Sindh/Dadu, and it would be provided with high standard infrastructure, most modern facilities and a number of recreational spots, etc.

Elaborating, he said the proposed towns which have initially been named as China Town, Makhtoum Town, Faisal Town and Mahatir Town will have an international airport, a diplomatic enclave, lake and dam on Hub river, national safari park, service and administration area, civic centre for administration and project office, police headquarters, an educational complex, a five-star hotel, jurist enclave, journalist colony, middle-income group apartments, international trade banking, Expo complex, Olympics and sports complex, industrial area, low-cost workers scheme, TV and Communication Centre, Institute of arts and crafts exhibition hall, central bus stand, bus terminals, fruit and vegetables and grain market and storage, national mosque and graveyards.

He said that around 100,000 families could reside there in the most enviable environment to be provided in the towns.

He said that besides the proposed model towns, the KBCA has also proposed setting up of textile city and cottage industries under Malir and Lyari development projects, saying that the proposed textile city would attract foreign investment.

NORTHERN BYPASS PROJECT
URC has been advocating for the implementation of Northern bypass project, which provides an exclusive access to heavy vehicles to Karachi port and reduce traffic congestions on city roads.

As the project will open new avenues of the development for the city therefore a master plan should be prepared for the utilization of the land along the bypass.

Shifting of all port related activities such as goodowns, Dan Mandi (Rice Market) Chemical Market, Timber market, and Metal Market from old city area to the proposed bypass".
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=227306

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/newdubaipro.jpg

siamu maharaj

May 26th, 2007, 08:42 AM

Toronto_guy

May 26th, 2007, 08:45 AM

I want to clarify about kbboy information above than water front project will uproot 200,000 people. The fact is that the population of UC - 8 Kemari Town is 38,055 as per city government website latest figure. The karachi's 2nd Subzi mandi(in process) is also in UC-8 Kemari Town in Deh Gand Pass. So please dont give wrong figure here. The relevent city government information about population of UC -8 Kemari Town is here:

http://www.karachicity.gov.pk/images/map/1kiamari-w.jpg

Toronto_guy

May 26th, 2007, 08:59 AM

The UC - 8 Kemari Town is called Gabo Pat. Its area is more than the remaining 7 Union Councils in Kemari Town. Over 80% area of UC - 8 is baren land and population is 35,055 people not 200,000 as mentioned by kbboy.

May 26th, 2007, 09:16 AM

He was quoting from a newspaper, look closely ..

siamu maharaj

May 26th, 2007, 11:40 AM

Deh Gand Pass???

Mercenary

May 26th, 2007, 01:19 PM

So are they actually going to build this ?.....

This project looks too good to be true.

Metropole

May 26th, 2007, 04:53 PM

Zees, as far as I know, this map is of some other defunct project. As for this project, like I've said, I'd be very surprised if it goes ahead in its current form. Karachiite is also right, all these papers do is bitch and bitch. I do that too, but I've good words too, always a balanced view of things. Right Karachiite? :D

Constructive criticism is always good, I myself am very critical when it comes to design and quality issues.

But the type of negativity I'm talking about is motivated by ill intentions like political considerations, jealousy, greed etc. As we can see, this kind of reporting is having an impact on the country. Even though economic progress is being made but if you listen to the opposition you'd think that the country is in a crisis.

Sikandar

May 26th, 2007, 06:35 PM

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a356/zees/newdubaipro.jpg

I'd love to give this constructive criticism but this just looks like something that was conceived in about 1-2 hours with absolutely no thought. It's not even drawn properly and looks like it's decades behind what the British put in place in Karachi in the 1800s.

When I see such inept and hopeless designs, I actually think such slow progress and seeing so many of these plans NOT come to the construction stage is actually a good thing. Inshallah the standard and placement of these critical positions will eventually be filled with competent and educated people instead of retired people from the military, and they'll have a clean slate to work with.

Nothing against the military, my own family has some high placements thanks to their services, and most have good intentions but just are not capable. Unfortunately there's not really a crowd of educated people knocking on the door either which is the main reason military people can retain these positions so easily.. because (the way I see it) they ARE well educated (in other fields) and corruption/discipline levels are generally better.

Sikandar

May 26th, 2007, 06:43 PM

I just looked at the diagram again and it kind of sunk in. This thing needs to be burned immediately. Is that a graveyard I see right in the middle of the "industrial extension"? This is probably the first diagram I've seen related to urban planning which truly deserves the response "astaghfarullah".

UnitedPakistan

May 26th, 2007, 06:49 PM

Metropole

May 26th, 2007, 06:58 PM

Calm down people. That design is just a figment of someone's imagination and only exists on paper. It has NOTHING to do with the waterfront. Wasn't this thing called "New Dubai".

When, or if, Limitless does a project, it should be of international quality.

Red aRRow

May 26th, 2007, 11:42 PM

gzWRhoew2vE
This is the real design. The picture in above posts is just someone's imagination and is not real.

May 26th, 2007, 11:50 PM

What about that Airport? Who is building that or who was building that?

Can a private company build whole airports too? Never heard of it :dunno:

UnitedPakistan

May 27th, 2007, 01:08 AM

What about that Airport? Who is building that or who was building that?

Can a private company build whole airports too? Never heard of it :dunno:
Sialkot...:lol:

DesiSoul

May 27th, 2007, 02:09 AM

gzWRhoew2vE
This is the real design. The picture in above posts is just someone's imagination and is not real.

I'm sorry if I sound too pessimistic, but I dont think a project of this magnitude would be completed in any part of Pakistan not at least in our lives.

shah_476gb

May 27th, 2007, 02:16 AM

It will be a long time but under current gov we can see it happening but if the gov changes then corrupts wont let it happen. Its hard to imgaine happening in Karachi but the city deserves it.

Edwardes

May 27th, 2007, 02:18 AM

Another airport in Karachi?

Metropole

May 27th, 2007, 02:22 AM

I'm sorry if I sound too pessimistic, but I dont think a project of this magnitude would be completed in any part of Pakistan not at least in our lives.

Don't worry. Within our lifetimes we'll see projects so big that this one will seem minor in comparison.

shah_476gb

May 27th, 2007, 02:25 AM

Don't worry. Within our lifetimes we'll see projects so big that this one will seem minor in comparison.

Inshallah. We are moving forward and like Mush said who ever comes in the way will be crushed. Karachi will challange the world big cities Inshallah, with beauty, economy and lifestyle.

siamu maharaj

May 27th, 2007, 05:48 AM

Don't worry. Within our lifetimes we'll see projects so big that this one will seem minor in comparison.
What? You do realize that $60~$150 billion project is huge for almost any country on this planet, right? In fact, I've till now struggled to find a project this big.

Mercenary

May 27th, 2007, 06:55 AM

^^ How much did it cost to build Islamabad?

KarachiRocker

May 27th, 2007, 09:37 AM

Rs.1
lolx

KarachiRocker

May 27th, 2007, 09:43 AM

This project will be completed when we will will become ancestors of someone.

Metropole

May 27th, 2007, 04:24 PM

What? You do realize that $60~$150 billion project is huge for almost any country on this planet, right? In fact, I've till now struggled to find a project this big.

I've said that within our "lifetimes" we'll see many big projects. That gives us many decades to work with.

With Pakistan, of course, you can never be sure because we have the example of very little progress being made in 30 years from the 1970's to the 2000's. But now, in the last 7 years we've gone from $60 billion to $140 billion in GNP. Give Musharraf and Shaukat Aziz another 20 years and Pakistan would go to a GNP of over $1 trillion with a doubling of the economy every 7-8 years three times.

By the time Pakistan reaches over $1 trillion in GNP the population may have gone to over 250 million. The per capita income would then be $4,000 - able to provide a very comfortable lifestyle to all Pakistanis. Compare this to $400 a few years ago and $850 now.

With that sort of income most people would be able to afford a decent house. And there would be a massive boom in housing in Karachi and other cities.

So my optimism is simply based on extrapolating on present economic growth and predicting future trends based on that. However, of course, if the corrupt politicians manage to come back to power then they'll steal whatever we have now and then there won't be any future.

Toronto_guy

May 27th, 2007, 08:05 PM

I m agree with the fair comment by Karachite. The Baba and Bibi ruined the country. One's husband became Mr Ten percent to Mr hundres percent and Baba(Model Town) starts from one fondry to 100 mills. May Allah give more courage to our presend government in maintaing our nearly 14 billion dollars foreign exchange which was during Nawaz time downed to 400 million dollars. The water front project will encourage the development of the sorrounding areas and will generate thousands of job.

shah_476gb

May 28th, 2007, 01:48 AM

I've said that within our "lifetimes" we'll see many big projects. That gives us many decades to work with.

With Pakistan, of course, you can never be sure because we have the example of very little progress being made in 30 years from the 1970's to the 2000's. But now, in the last 7 years we've gone from $60 billion to $140 billion in GNP. Give Musharraf and Shaukat Aziz another 20 years and Pakistan would go to a GNP of over $1 trillion with a doubling of the economy every 7-8 years three times.

By the time Pakistan reaches over $1 trillion in GNP the population may have gone to over 250 million. The per capita income would then be $4,000 - able to provide a very comfortable lifestyle to all Pakistanis. Compare this to $400 a few years ago and $850 now.

With that sort of income most people would be able to afford a decent house. And there would be a massive boom in housing in Karachi and other cities.

So my optimism is simply based on extrapolating on present economic growth and predicting future trends based on that. However, of course, if the corrupt politicians manage to come back to power then they'll steal whatever we have now and then there won't be any future.

Couldnt agree more. Dont understand why our public still want those traitors back. This will creat thousands of jobs alongside Emaar and other great projetcs. Just like you mentioned the GDP will surely be reaching the very top and we can be in top 5 in that time frame from 26 now which we below 40 or 50, 8 years ago.

Khanrak

May 29th, 2007, 09:41 AM

I hope the corrupt politicians, sindh govt', and fundie mullahs will stay quiet forever so that these projects can move along.

moved_on

May 29th, 2007, 05:55 PM

No mullah's in Sindh for sure, and also end to this stupid CM with Dr.s degree from Gog knows where.

Toronto_guy

May 30th, 2007, 09:19 PM

I m fully agreed with move on. Let the City government do their job. NO mullah no baba no bibi forever

KarachiRocker

June 1st, 2007, 09:34 AM

I m fully agreed with move on. Let the City government do their job. NO mullah no baba no bibi forever

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Mercenary

June 9th, 2007, 10:43 PM

^^ so any updates about this project?

transistorized

June 10th, 2007, 06:29 AM

What? You do realize that $60~$150 billion project is huge for almost any country on this planet, right? In fact, I've till now struggled to find a project this big.

Dont lose hope my friend. Pakistan has a huge population it really needs a few new cities especially in Baluchistan, internal Sindh, NWFP and AK (well, basically everywhere outside of Punjab :nuts:). So, I personally feel that if we keep progressing at a good rate, we will see foreign companies coming here and trying to set up well-planned cities. I do feel that there would be enough demand for such projects to warrant these companies interest. I for one would be interested. If I ever had to move back to Pakistan, I would much rather live in well-planned and less populous city like Islo, rather than live in a clustre-**** of humanity that is Karachi and Lahore (no offense to Lahoris and Karachites - big humongous cities are just not my thing).

And when such projects get started, I would assume these projects would be just as big (if not bigger) as this project.

Huda

July 12th, 2007, 04:14 AM

25,000 hectares = 250 sq Km, or a square with abt 15-16 sq km size. I boxed it out on Google Earth and am posting it just for visualization's sake:

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/8273/khiwtftareagb2.jpg

This is no doubt a big area but it is only natural that in the future, Karachi would be expanding in this direction. This project to me seems more like a master-planning project than one which develops actual residential or commercial buildings. It is also not going to be developed outright, but it is planned to be developed over the next 10-15 years or so. As for the money, it is going to come through foreign investments and investments made by DPW through Limitless.
Who is going to occupy it and who will have enough money to buy houses there? Well, most of DHA is sold out, and theres rapid expansion still going on in Karachi. Also, massive expansion is currently also being carried out on the Karachi Port which should increase the amount of trade carried out through there, so I dont think there will be any problem finding people to buy the property. As for the expense, sure, the total project has a massive cost, but thats spread over a massive size. I am pretty sure that individual units would have to be economically priced so people would actually buy them. Thats for the investors to work out in advance and I am sure they would have done that. Karachi definitely has potential to support such a project over the next 15 years or so.
Also, Bombay has a Navi Mumbai on the side, Delhi has New Delhi on the side, Rawalpindi has Islamabad on the side, and Dubai's old city has the new Dubai on the side. Karachi surely has potential to support a newly planned area on its side even if it is almost as big as the city itself.

Overall conclusion: AWESOME project and good direction for Karachi to grow in as opposed to growing on the mangrove islands. I support this project 100% wholeheartedly.

The area you've outlined already contains populated areas. Maripur, KAANP colony, Naval colony etc. The area swerveut (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/member.php?u=19514) has suggested above contains West Wharf! I suggest that people should stop speculating and wait for official anouncement.

This project and the one containing Port/KPT Tower all are quit ambitious. The country already is indebted with 37B US$. Total budget this year is some 30B US$.

The generally supposed area will be accessable by two main roads. Maripur rod and the N by pass. Marippur road wont be able to handle the new traffic load and by paas can't serve the main city. I hope they are building some new roads too. Broad ones.

Also the water front is not the only direction in which Karachi can expend. Don't forget that area along with Super Highway is developping very rapidly. Plots worth 500,000 five years ago now are worth 5,000,000. The anouncement of Defenc Phase 9 and the huge area baught by Aga Khanis has also added value to the area. I am talking about scheme 33 and beyond. Then there is the area beyond North Nazimabad where all those new schemes by city govt. are located.

musiddiqui

July 21st, 2007, 09:43 AM

karachi waterfront and all related news have been removed from the limiltess website unfortunately time to close the thread

July 21st, 2007, 09:44 AM

:ohno:

siamu maharaj

July 21st, 2007, 10:53 AM

I think it's been known for quite sometime that this project was cancelled.

Mercenary

July 21st, 2007, 11:00 AM

I think it's been known for quite sometime that this project was cancelled.

Any specific reason why it got cancelled?

siamu maharaj

July 21st, 2007, 01:45 PM

Any specific reason why it got cancelled?
Sindh's Chief Minister or whatever he is had something up his ass, and didn't like the project. The same guy who didn't allow taller buildings.

ArchiPak

July 21st, 2007, 01:55 PM

Sindh's Chief Minister or whatever he is had something up his ass, and didn't like the project. The same guy who didn't allow taller buildings.

False accusations you are making here. Don't do that, you don;t kow what happened.

siamu maharaj

July 21st, 2007, 03:01 PM

False accusations you are making here. Don't do that, you don;t kow what happened.
Please check this thread, the news items are right there.

moved_on

July 22nd, 2007, 04:54 AM

This project is going ahead...news from reliable sources. Right now they are procuring land presently leased to some people.

siamu maharaj

July 22nd, 2007, 08:54 AM

This project is going ahead...news from reliable sources. Right now they are procuring land presently leased to some people.
How sure are you?

malpensa

July 22nd, 2007, 02:15 PM

Just a couple a days ago in an arab newspaper their ceo was talking about their big projects in south asia including Pakistan. so in a couple of days they pulled out. something aint right??

siamu maharaj

July 22nd, 2007, 07:04 PM

Just a couple a days ago in an arab newspaper their ceo was talking about their big projects in south asia including Pakistan. so in a couple of days they pulled out. something aint right??
Maybe this isn't their only project in Pakistan?

Metropole

July 22nd, 2007, 07:20 PM

Okay, let's clear this up. Here's Limitless's website, and it still has info. on the Karachi project:

http://www.limitless.ae/content/karachi.aspx

This project is a very large and long term one, taking maybe 20 years, so it'll happen in slow motion.

malpensa

July 22nd, 2007, 07:34 PM

"Maybe this isn't their only project in Pakistan?" we on this forum are like the "ISI" these sort of projects dont happen witout us knowing .....LOL

malpensa

July 22nd, 2007, 07:38 PM

All bulldozing, shoveling and building is closly monitered by different cells across the cities.

:nuts:

siamu maharaj

July 22nd, 2007, 08:09 PM

"Maybe this isn't their only project in Pakistan?" we on this forum are like the "ISI" these sort of projects dont happen witout us knowing .....LOL
True. Actually, I did remember Limitless having another project, but wasn't sure. Hence I asked.

UnitedPakistan

July 23rd, 2007, 07:53 AM

Arbab may flee, warns Nisar
http://geo.tv/news_images/eng/7-23-2007_9175_l.gif

KARACHI: Pakistan People’s Party leader and Leader of Opposition in Sindh Assembly Nisar Khuhro has said that Chief Minister Sindh Arbab Ghulam Rahim and his brothers, including Ram Singh Sodho, are trying to flee from the country and demanded that he should not be allowed to use any helicopter in order to foil his attempts.

In a press release, the PPP leader said that it would be purely unjustified on the part of any authority if it helped the most “dubious” chief minister flee from the country.

“Arbab Ghulam Rahim deserves to be taken into custody for playing an ugly and negative role in pushing the country to worst-ever judicial crisis,” he said, adding, “From the kidnapping of dozens of women from Punjab to the loot and plunder by Arbab Ghulam Rahim and his family members, the judicial dossiers are full of complaints against his ugly character in politics.”

Nisar Khuhro asked General Musharraf to undo the hurdles between the law and Arbab Ghulam Rahim if he had really accepted the historic verdict of the Supreme Court, “which has in fact attracted wide-scale acclamation across the world for Pakistan”.

He said that Arbab raised heaps of allegations against Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry and other senior judges of the apex court, adding the chief minister also played central role in the massacre of opposition workers in Karachi but instead of arresting any killer he held Chief Justice of Pakistan responsible for the May 12 mayhem.

UnitedPakistan

July 23rd, 2007, 07:53 AM

The cause of the delay and cutting of our projects is now fleeing!

JEEVAY JEEVAY!

siamu maharaj

July 23rd, 2007, 10:22 AM

I don't get it.

Mercenary

July 23rd, 2007, 01:12 PM

The cause of the delay and cutting of our projects is now fleeing!

JEEVAY JEEVAY!

I don't get it.

What did this Idiot CM gain by delaying and canceling projects?

safe_blood

August 5th, 2007, 08:46 AM

the project is still on ladies

--------------------

Real estate development to drive local economy

UAE investment here for the long run

KARACHI: Investment from companies of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Pakistan has risen significantly and one of the reasons is the good experiences many UAE-based companies have had here. Saad Zaman, who works as the Honorary Investment Consul for Pakistan in the UAE, told The News that UAE-based companies have done well in the past couple of years and this experience is opening up Pakistan to UAE investors.

Zaman, who also heads the Dubai Islamic Bank in Pakistan, says that the experience of his bank is proof enough of how lucrative the Pakistani market is. He said that the growth of the bank since it started working here has been very impressive and this has not gone unnoticed in the UAE.

“Companies are now asking us for advice on how and where to invest in Pakistan,” he commented.

Zaman said that areas of focus for the UAE companies remain telecom, the retail sector, real estate, finance and tourism. The honorary consul says that these are the areas where the companies have expertise and this is where they will come.

“We have been active in the real estate sector and we believe that this activity will start an economic cycle which will result in more opportunities.” At the same time, Zaman clarified that the real estate projects that many UAE-based firms are bringing into the country are not elitist as believed but will bring housing relief to all sections of society.

He said it is a misconception that the housing projects being launched by UAE-based companies like Emaar and Limitless are only for the rich. Zaman argued that these mega projects will not only expand the housing sector considerably but will also help in creating opportunities for the middle class to invest as well.

“Look at Pakistan,” says Zaman, who did his schooling in Karachi’s Habib Public School, adding “there is a shortage in the housing sector. You either have upper end products or those that are very down market.”

Zaman said that UAE companies entering the Pakistan real estate sector will have a positive impact. First, there is shortage of housing and this will be met. Then, the middle class will be able to go for purchasable real estate. Also, this business will create lots of job opportunities.

He also said that it is wrong to assume that UAE companies are coming to Pakistan because opportunities in the West have been restricted following the events of September 11. He pointed out that it is the state of Pakistan’s economy which is drawing investors otherwise lots of opportunities exist in different parts of the world like China and India.

Zaman also talked about a UAE-based organisation “Limitless”, a subsidiary of UAE firm “Nakheel,” which is investing in a mega real estate project in Karachi.

He said that the companies that were coming into the real estate sector from the UAE were credible and in many instances Dubai government-owned.

“It’s not a case of a commitment of some years. We are looking at long-term commitments in Pakistan,” he said, adding that the real estate sector in Pakistan needed to have big and credible players for it to boom.

He said that the projects being initiated by companies owned by the Dubai government meant that all international standards including addressing environmental concerns and issues related to residents of an area that was being developed would be addressed.

Zaman clarified that the “Sugarland City Project” initiated at the Hawkesbay/Sandspit area was in fact still in very early stages.

“First of all, it’s not called Sugarland but Waterfront Development Project,” said Zaman, adding that the Sindh government was at present doing its due exercise after which the area could be offered to their company for development.
The DIB chief said that the entry of international players in Pakistan would also help raise the quality of products and services offered in Pakistan. He said that the Pakistani market needed this kind of investment and expertise to grow.
http://www.thenews.com.pk/

safe_blood

October 30th, 2007, 09:26 PM

Post: #1Residents oppose Sugarland city project

Tuesday, October 30, 2007
By Jan Khaskheli

Karachi

The residents of Hawkes Bay villages, councilors and Nazims have strongly opposed the construction of the Sugarland city in the area, as they believe the project may cause displacement of the local communities. It is mostly the fishermen and traditional herdsmen living in the area which will be included in Sugarland city.

In this regard a community consultation meeting, jointly organised by the Pakistan Mahigeer Tahreek (PMT) and SPO, was held at the wetland centre of WWF Pakistan. The meeting was attended by several members of the fishing community, elected representatives from the Hawkes Bay area and civil society organizations — including the IUCN Pakistan, WWF Pakistan, Shehri, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and Shirkat Gah.

The participants vowed to resist this plan which they said would displace villagers, deprive them of their livelihoods and destroy mangroves. The community people and nazims complained that the government has yet to convey any information on the project and they feel that the City District Government Karachi (CDGK) will displace the dozens of centuries-old villages of the fishermen and herdsmen.

The Sugarland city project has been planned at 60,000 acres of land in the area. Nasir Panhwar of the IUCN, Pakistan, shared that his organisation is mobilising an international panel of experts to study the mega construction projects on Karachi coast.

The community people from different villages said that their villages are deprived of most basic amenities, such as potable water, schools and health centres. The PMT is trying to mobilise the community and create awareness regarding the impact of the Sugarland city on local communities and natural resources. Stakeholders fear that they will be deprived of their land and natural resources in the name of development. Naseer Memon, an environmentalist, made a presentation in the meeting, sharing details of the project and its likely impact on the poor communities.
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=77796