How is sewage treated and disposed of in Karachi?

In Karachi, sewage is managed through two underground drainage systems that transport waste for processing. The city utilizes three sewage treatment plants to handle this waste, with one facility dedicated to the city proper and two others serving the outlying areas.1

While these systems exist, the delivery of basic municipal services, including sanitation, has historically faced significant challenges. Rapid population growth and infrastructure strain have led to periods where sanitation services have deteriorated, particularly in informal settlements known as katchi abadis, which often lack adequate access to basic infrastructure. Responsibility for these services is shared between the district municipal corporations and the government of Sindh.21