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KARACHI's EARLY DEVELOPMENT
The British recognized the importance of this natural harbor by the Indus and started developing the fishing village as a principal port for the Indus River basin. In 1843, a river steamer service was introduced linking Karachi with the city of Multan, 500 miles upstream on the Indus. The population of the city started rising rapidly and by the 1850's, Karachi had become an established city with a population of about 14,000 and prosperous overseas trade.
Karachi was endowed with a natural harbour, fair weather and plenty of space. It had the potential to become a great metropolis and held lots of prospects for those who could take their chances. Soon, moneyed people from Bombay, Goa, Kuchh and other parts of the subcontinent started migrating to the city to undertake various occupations. The town's population started rising rapidly which is evidenced by the fact that the municipality's income rose from Rs. 6,000 in 1848, to Rs. 27,000 by 1850 in just two years. In 1854, substantial development of the Karachi Port was undertaken with the dredging of the main channel, and the construction of a mole (or causeway) which joined the main harbor with the rest of the city.
The Trinity Church - consecrated in 1855, its exceptionally tall tower was used as a beacon for ships approaching the Karachi Harbour (last picture dates from 1890)
Early postcard views of the Karachi Port at Manora and Keamari
An old map of Karachi dating from 1852-3
Local Businesses Spotlight
The first few businesses that set up in Karachi were done by risk takers as in the early days, Karachi was still an outpost in the middle of the desert and away from the big urban centers like Bombay. It lacked many support facilities and an established clientele as was available in other big cities. A post in Karachi was not something that was looked upon as exciting. It was still very much a frontier town. Nevertheless, the first few businessmen who did take the risk of setting up shop in this new city were not disappointed with their decision further ahead in time, as they were able to secure a good place in the city that was yet to be.
The Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China, Karachi Branch (c. 1853)
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Hajee Dossul and Sons Co. (c. 1840): General merchandizing, fancy goods and ammunition. Located on Elphinstone St.
Mahomed Ali Alibhoy & Sons (c. 1843): contractors for the military
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