TRADE FLOWS AND URBAN GROWTH: INVESTIGATING THE HISTORICAL ECONOMIC NEXUS BETWEEN KARACHI AND THE INDUS RIVER BASIN

Abstract

Since gaining independence, Karachi, Pakistan's largest city, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a transportation hub to a multifaceted metropolis integrating industry, commerce, finance, politics, and culture. This dynamic development has not only broadened the city's functions but also influenced its physical expansion. Cities inherently exhibit a correlation between their functions and scale, with an increase in functions often accompanying a growth in size. The reciprocal relationship between urban functions and expansion is evident in the case of Karachi, where the augmentation of functions has driven the city's spatial growth. This article delves into the historical exploration of the economic ties between Karachi and the Indus River Basin, aiming to illuminate the causal relationship between the expansion of Karachi's urban functions and its physical sprawl, with potential implications for the city's future development.

The multifaceted nature of Karachi's urban evolution is intricately linked to its historical economic relationship with the Indus River Basin. By examining this historical trajectory, the study seeks to unravel the dynamics that have shaped Karachi's growth and functions over time. The expansion of the city's economic ties and functions is not only a reflection of its historical journey but also a crucial factor in understanding its contemporary status. The insights derived from this historical analysis hold valuable implications for guiding the future development of Karachi.