Karachi’s Transit Woes: A Call to Action
Karachi, the bustling heart of Pakistan, is facing a transportation dilemma that many residents can relate to. Mayor Murtaza Wahab recently raised alarms about the ongoing delays in two major transit projects: the Green Line and the Red Line. If progress continues at the current pace, he warned that these initiatives might not be completed even by 2035.
The Red Line, which kicked off in March 2022, was initially projected to wrap up in just 30 months. Fast forward three years, and this 26-kilometer route—set to connect Model Colony to the Numaish intersection via University Road—still isn’t finished. Co-funded by several international financial institutions, including the Asian Development Bank and the Green Climate Fund, this project initially carried a price tag of $493.5 million.
Wahab didn’t hold back during a recent media briefing, urging the Public Infrastructure Development Company Limited (PIDCL) to provide a solid timeline for when we can expect these projects to be completed. He emphasized, "Development work in the city should be managed locally." It’s hard to disagree when considering they are still referring to a No Objection Certificate from 2017 as they plan for 2025!
The challenges are palpable. Just take a stroll along University Road or near Nagan Chowrangi and KDA Chowrangi, and you’ll immediately notice the toll these projects are taking. Residents are grappling with damaged roads and incomplete civil works, which only adds to the daily stress of navigating life in one of the largest cities in the world.
Wahab made it clear that local leadership should be key players in all development phases. Residents deserve to see their interests protected, especially when it comes to projects that impact their daily lives. Keeping roads intact and ensuring that footpaths are safe should be at the forefront of any transit initiative.
As we look forward, let’s keep the pressure on for transparency and accountability in these projects. Every Karachiite deserves efficient, safe, and reliable transport options. If you’re interested in staying updated on civic matters and how they affect you, feel free to engage with platforms like Pro21st for more insights and discussions on urban development and planning in Karachi. Together, we can strive for a better future for our city!
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