Karachi residents awaiting affordable and reliable transportation face disappointing news as the completion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project may be delayed by an additional two years.
This setback is attributed to objections raised by stakeholders, including the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The project, valued at over USD 503 million and co-financed by several international organizations, has been plagued by cost escalations, design changes, and land acquisition issues,
According to reports, millions of commuters travelling on University Road will have to continue navigating damaged and deteriorated roads until at least December 2026. The multi-billion-rupee BRT project, in works for the past three years, was initially slated for earlier completion.
Sindh’s Senior Minister for Transport, Sharjeel Inam Memon, highlighted the CAA’s recent objections during discussions with journalists, expressing uncertainty about meeting the December 2026 completion target. He noted that numerous issues require resolution, and the goal of completing the project by December 2026 now seems challenging.
Minister Memon attributed delays to government and private companies responsible for essential utilities such as electricity, gas, and telecommunications, citing prolonged infrastructure relocation processes. He specifically mentioned that the CAA, after initially issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC), has raised concerns about one of the three structural components, potentially causing further delays in the Red Line’s construction.
Additionally, Minister Memon addressed the BRT Yellow Line project, stating that the Sindh government is diligently working to provide maximum facilities to the public. He claimed that the Yellow Line BRT project, originally scheduled for completion in September 2025, is now expected to be finished five months ahead of schedule, by May 2025. The Yellow Line bus route will operate from Dawood Chowrangi, via Korangi 8000 Road, Shahrah-e-Quaideen, to Numaish Chowrangi.
Minister Memon emphasized that Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, has directed the expedited completion of the first track. Once utility-related issues are resolved, progress is anticipated to accelerate significantly.
Regarding the Green Line, Minister Memon assured that there would be no fare increases. Instead, additional facilities will be introduced to enhance transport services for the public. He also urged the Prime Minister to fulfil the promise of providing 180 buses for Karachi, emphasizing that it is the right of the city’s residents to have improved transportation facilities.
For women, special initiatives are underway, including the provision of free pink scooters for working women. Additionally, a pink taxi service is set to launch soon, offering safe and comfortable travel options for female commuters.
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