Delays in the Red Line Project Are Due to Utility Relocation, Not Government, Says Sharjeel Memon
Double-Decker Buses Coming to Karachi This Year
Karachi Web Desk:
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon clarified that the delays in the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project are not caused by the government but are due to utility relocations. Speaking at a gathering organized by the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), he shared updates on various projects and initiatives in Karachi.
Memon announced that double-decker buses will be introduced to Karachi this year, with an effort to deploy them on Shahrah-e-Faisal within the same timeframe.
During his address, Memon emphasized the government’s commitment to the business community, stating, “Former President Asif Ali Zardari gives special attention to traders, and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, and the Sindh government take your concerns seriously because the country’s economy thrives on the business community.”
He supported KATI’s recommendation to establish new industrial zones, describing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Dhabeji Economic Zone as a state-of-the-art project. However, he acknowledged that under the current IMF program, additional special economic zones cannot be developed.
Memon also announced that Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari would inaugurate the Malir Expressway in two days, calling it a gift from the Pakistan People’s Party to Karachi’s residents. He invited KATI representatives to participate in the Yellow Line BRT board meetings and expressed hope that the construction of Jam Sadiq Bridge would be completed within eight months.
The minister highlighted that Sindh is the first province in Pakistan to introduce electric buses and women-only transport services. “We are currently operating transport services in Karachi with government subsidies,” he added.
Addressing infrastructure challenges, Memon revealed that some business entities have taken infrastructure-related matters to the Supreme Court. He urged associations to play their role in releasing the frozen funds of PKR 190 billion, adding that unresolved issues remain, but the Sindh government is committed to addressing them.
On Karachi’s improved security situation, Memon remarked, “Karachi is much safer now. Strikes that used to last for days are a thing of the past. The city is now a secure destination for investment.”
He admitted, however, that water remains a significant challenge and shared updates on progress with the K-IV and Hub Canal projects. Memon also detailed the government’s efforts in waste management, stating that billions are being spent on garbage collection in Karachi, Hyderabad, and Larkana.
In the health sector, Memon highlighted the Sindh government’s initiatives aligned with the vision of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto and former President Asif Zardari. He mentioned the expansion of NICVD (National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases) units and the provision of free CyberKnife surgeries, which are among the most expensive medical treatments.
The minister reiterated the Sindh government’s commitment to resolving Karachi’s pressing issues and ensuring sustainable development for its citizens.
