By The government of Sindh is accelerating development on two key infrastructure initiatives aimed at transforming urban mobility and regional connectivity: the Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway in Karachi and a new bridge linking Sukkur and Rohri.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah during the 51st Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy Board meeting, highlighting the province’s commitment to modern infrastructure under the PPP framework.
Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway Nears Completion
The 39-kilometer Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway is now 88.2% complete, marking a significant milestone in one of Karachi’s most ambitious road projects. Once operational, the high-speed corridor is expected to:
- Reduce travel time across key city routes
- Divert heavy traffic away from congested urban roads
- Improve overall traffic flow and efficiency
A notable feature of the project is the approval of a 25-year maintenance plan for solar-powered streetlights along a 4.5-kilometer elevated section at Sammo Goth. This initiative aims to enhance nighttime visibility while promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Sukkur-Rohri Bridge to Improve Regional Connectivity
In parallel, the Sindh government has approved the construction of a 1.5-kilometer multi-lane bridge over the Indus River, located north of Bukkur Island. The bridge will connect Sukkur, Rohri, and nearby towns, offering a much-needed alternative crossing.
Currently, the historic Lansdowne Bridge serves as the primary link, while public access via the Sukkur Barrage remains suspended until at least 2027. This has placed immense pressure on existing infrastructure.
The new bridge will feature:
- Multiple lanes for smooth traffic flow
- Dedicated pedestrian walkways
- Capacity to handle heavy commercial vehicles
According to provincial authorities, nearly 70% of residents in Rohri, Salehpat, and Pano Aqil depend on this route for daily commuting, education, and healthcare access.
Economic and Social Impact
The dual projects are expected to significantly reduce congestion, enhance trade routes, and improve emergency response times. By easing transportation bottlenecks, these developments will also support economic growth across northern Sindh.
The Local Government Department will oversee the execution of the bridge project under the PPP model, ensuring private sector collaboration and efficient delivery.
Key Stakeholders and Future Outlook
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Special Assistant Syed Qasim Naveed, and Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah.
With both projects progressing steadily, Sindh is positioning itself for a more connected and efficient transportation network. These initiatives reflect a broader vision to modernize infrastructure and meet the growing demands of urbanization and regional mobility.
