Construction Resumes on Karachi’s Red Line BRT

Construction on Karachi’s much-delayed Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project has finally resumed after nearly two months of inactivity. The work restarted following intervention from Sindh’s Chief Minister, who stepped in to resolve major bottlenecks hindering progress. Despite construction activities restarting, officials still have not provided a definitive timeline for completion—leaving thousands of daily commuters along University Road struggling with traffic disruptions and road closures.

The project, initially seen as a transformative addition to Karachi’s public transport system, stalled due to multiple challenges. Rising construction costs and complications with relocating underground utility lines were among the leading factors that brought work to a halt. According to Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, who met with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Thursday, the provincial government is now accelerating efforts to streamline implementation and resolve the remaining issues.

A Project Plagued by Delays and Rising Costs

The Red Line BRT, funded primarily by the ADB, is planned to stretch 27 kilometers from Malir Halt to Numaish, running through the critically important University Road corridor. Originally announced in 2017 with an estimated cost of Rs. 79 billion, the project has suffered repeated setbacks that have pushed the budget to Rs. 103 billion.

Construction formally began in early 2022, with an initial completion target of 2023. That deadline soon shifted to 2024, and later was extended again to the end of 2026. Officials have pointed to several factors contributing to the delays, including:

• Contractor disputes
• Sharp increases in construction material costs
• Land acquisition challenges
• Utility relocation difficulties
• Poor coordination among implementing agencies

These persistent obstacles ultimately caused work to grind to a halt in September 2024.

Government Intervention Revives Work, But Hurdles Remain

With the chief minister stepping in to remove roadblocks, construction teams have resumed activities at several points along the route. While this is a positive step, authorities have not committed to a revised construction timeline, raising concerns over whether the long-awaited project will meet even the latest projected deadline.

For commuters who rely on University Road, the uncertainty means continued traffic congestion, diversions, and extended travel times. Until a clear timeline is issued, Karachi residents will have to continue navigating daily disruptions.

The Red Line BRT remains one of Karachi’s most ambitious urban mobility projects, and its timely completion is crucial for easing traffic pressure in one of the city’s busiest corridors. With work now restarted, much depends on how effectively the government can maintain momentum and address outstanding challenges.

Disclaimer:
The information in this article is based on official statements and available reports at the time of writing. Project timelines, costs, and government decisions may change as new updates are released. Readers are advised to verify details from relevant authorities for the most current information.

Afsheen Gohar

Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.