Karachi

Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan, serving as the country’s commercial and financial hub. Located on the coastline of the Arabian Sea in southern Sindh, it functions as the provincial capital and hosts major seaports, including the Port of Karachi and Port Qasim, along with Jinnah International Airport. The city’s population is estimated to be one of the world’s largest urban agglomerations, with a diverse mix of communities and languages.

Karachi’s modern growth began under colonial rule and was shaped by its role as a major trading port. The area around the historic Kolachi-jo-Goth developed into a bustling port city, and Karachi served as the national capital from 1947 to 1959. Since independence, it has grown into Pakistan’s largest city and its principal economic engine, contributing a large share of the country’s GDP through manufacturing, shipping, finance, and services. It hosts the Pakistan Stock Exchange and numerous banks, firms, and media organizations.

The city is ethnically and linguistically diverse, with communities including Sindhis, Muhajirs, Punjabis, Pashtuns, Balochis, and others. Urdu and Sindhi are widely spoken, along with Punjabi and Pashto. Karachi’s climate is hot and humid, with a monsoon season bringing heavy rains at times and mild winters. Urban challenges include infrastructure, housing, and service delivery, while ongoing development aims to expand transportation and housing.

Notable features include the Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum, historic and coastal districts such as Clifton and Lyari, and a vibrant cultural scene with cuisine, arts, and media.