Karachi
(1998 pop. 9 million). Before 1725 CE, Karachi, the capital of Pakistan's Sindh Province, was just a desolate geographic region, with the waters of the Arabian Sea lapping over it on three sides. It now boasts a population of over 9 million and is a commercial and industrial center for Pakistan.
Karachi is a city of contrasts where old and new elements blend together. Bazaars reflect the heritage of trade that is at the economic foundation of this city, while a nuclear power plant and higher learning institutions denote its place in the modern era. It also is home to the largest international airport in Pakistan as well as being the chief terminal point for Pakistan's railway transportation system.
Being located on the shores of the Arabian Sea makes Karachi the ideal shipping port. As a result, about 15 billion tons of cargo come through its harbor every year. The sea and Karachi's exceptional weather of constant sunshine throughout the year alsomake available recreational and sport activities, such as sailing, yachting, and scuba diving, to its inhabitants as well as foreign tourists to the area.
A broad view of Karachi, Pakistan. (NIK WHEELER/CORBIS)Further Reading
Adams, Francis, Satya Dev Gupta, and Kidane Mengisteab, eds. (1999) Globalization and the Dilemmas of the State in the South. New York: St. Martin's Press.
Cleveland, William L. (1994) A History of the Modern Middle East. Boulder, CO: Westview Press.
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