KARACHI: Following a three-year closure due to security concerns, the Senate Sub-Committee on National Heritage and Culture has officially decided to reopen Mazar-e-Quaid (the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah) to the general public under revised security protocols. The decision was announced during a high-level committee meeting chaired by Senator Waqar Mehdi, which reviewed administrative, developmental, financial, and security affairs surrounding the national monument and its adjacent areas.
The reopening strategy has been developed in close consultation with the Karachi Commissioner and relevant authorities, ensuring that public access is safely restored under strict security guidelines. During the session, the committee raised serious concerns over disproportionately high electricity bills, emphasizing that the mausoleum is neither a commercial nor a residential property. Officials also noted that the surrounding boundary walls and infrastructure are in a state of disrepair. To combat theft and enhance safety, the installation of security cameras around the perimeter has been strongly recommended. Furthermore, acknowledging the use of the adjacent ground for political gatherings, the committee suggested lowering the high venue rental fees to make it more accessible. Noting that a recent grant of PKR 20 million from the Sindh Government is insufficient for maintenance, the committee urged all provinces to contribute, announcing that a formal recommendation for a special inter-provincial grant will be dispatched to all Chief Ministers.
