By A significant step toward improving urban mobility in Karachi has been taken as Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi directed the immediate issuance of a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the long-delayed Malir Halt underpass project. The decision removes a major administrative hurdle that had stalled progress on this key infrastructure initiative.
The directive came during a high-level meeting that brought together senior leadership, including Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Local Government Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah. The meeting focused on addressing Karachi’s growing transportation challenges and finding long-term, sustainable solutions.
The Malir Halt underpass is considered crucial for easing traffic congestion in one of the city’s busiest areas. Previously, delays in obtaining approval from Pakistan Railways had slowed the project’s progress. With the NOC now approved, construction is expected to move forward without further bureaucratic setbacks.
In addition to the underpass, officials also agreed on reviving the long-awaited Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) and restoring suburban train services. These initiatives are seen as vital for providing affordable and efficient commuting options to millions of residents.
Further plans discussed during the meeting include launching new train routes connecting Karachi with Rohri and Jacobabad, expanding regional connectivity and offering more travel choices to the public.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah emphasized the urgent need for a reliable and cost-effective public transport network in Karachi, a city that continues to face severe traffic congestion and limited mass transit options. Meanwhile, Hanif Abbasi reiterated the federal government’s commitment to working closely with the Sindh government to modernize railway infrastructure and enhance service reliability.
The combined efforts signal a renewed focus on transforming Karachi’s transport landscape, with both provincial and federal authorities aligning their strategies to deliver long-overdue improvem
