By Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab has voiced frustration over the persistent delays in the city’s Green Line and Red Line transport projects, warning that the projects might not be completed even by 2035 if the current pace continues.
Call for Clear Deadlines
In his statement, Wahab urged the Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited (PIDCL) to announce a clear and final completion date for both projects. He also demanded assurance for the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) regarding road repairs, damaged footpaths, and project timelines, stressing that citizens cannot be left in limbo indefinitely.
Longstanding Delays Since 2017
Despite the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in 2017, both the Green Line and Red Line projects remain incomplete. Wahab criticized the lack of progress, saying Karachi’s residents have continued to suffer due to mismanagement and poor planning.
He highlighted how earlier construction around Nagan Chowrangi and KDA Chowrangi caused severe public inconvenience during the Green Line project. Now, similar issues are being reported along University Road, where ongoing Red Line work has disrupted daily commutes and worsened traffic congestion.
Demand for Local Involvement
The mayor emphasized that local leadership must be directly involved in the planning and execution of these projects to ensure accountability and timely delivery. He cautioned that without a change in approach, delays will further deteriorate the city’s infrastructure and quality of life.
The Way Forward
Wahab’s remarks reflect growing public frustration with the prolonged delays. He insisted that Karachi needs not only modern transport solutions but also transparent project management to prevent further setbacks.
If completed on time, the Karachi Green Line and Red Line projects are expected to play a vital role in easing traffic congestion, modernizing public transport, and supporting the city’s long-term development. However, unless immediate corrective action is taken, citizens may face another decade of uncertainty.
