Mayor of Karachi Inaugurates Book Fair "Kitabon Ka Jahan" at Empress Market
KARACHI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2026) The Mayor of Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, has stated that encroachments have been removed from the historic Empress Market, restoring this heritage site. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is focused on both urban development and preserving its historical buildings and culture.
A decision has been made to utilize Empress Market as a cultural centre and public space. The Mayor encouraged citizens of Karachi to visit the venue, purchase books, and support local publishers, while various programs will continue to promote culture.
He expressed these views at a ceremony marking the inauguration of a book fair titled "Kitabon Ka Jahan" at Empress Market on Saturday. Parliamentary Leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party in the City Council, Karamullah Waqasi, other council members, elected representatives, and relevant officers also attended.
The Mayor of Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, personally visited various book stalls and purchased books.
Addressing the ceremony, the Mayor emphasized the importance of books as a source of knowledge, awareness, and positive thinking. He argued that cultivating a love for reading in Karachi is crucial at this time. The book fair, held at Empress Market, is a welcome step, particularly for citizens and young people. Books play a vital role in introducing younger generations to knowledge and awareness.
The Mayor noted that the book fair would provide easy access to books on diverse subjects. He stressed that fostering a reading habit among the younger generation is a collective responsibility. Reading books promote positive thinking and tolerance within society, while developing this habit lays the foundation for an educated, aware, and capable society.
Speaking to media representatives, the Mayor highlighted the historical significance of Empress Market, which is approximately 150 years old. In the past, due to encroachments, citizens, especially children, young people, and senior citizens, were unable to freely access the area. Thanks to the efforts of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, these encroachments have been removed, restoring the historic heritage site.
He criticized those who build facilities but fail to utilize them properly, allowing land-grabbing elements to exploit the situation. Therefore, Empress Market will not only be a historical monument but also a vibrant cultural centre and public space. He mentioned that a Bohra food festival had recently been held there.