Sindh Approves Karachi Port to Qayyumabad Elevated Expressway Project

The Sindh government has formally approved the Karachi Port to Qayyumabad Elevated Expressway Project, a major infrastructure development designed to enhance connectivity between the Karachi Port (East Wharf) and Jam Sadiq Interchange. The project will be executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model to attract private investment and ensure long-term operational efficiency.

The approval was granted during the 48th meeting of the PPP Policy Board, chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the CM House. Senior officials, including provincial ministers, the Chief Secretary, and heads of the Planning and Development and PPP Units, attended the meeting.

Project Overview and Strategic Importance

The expressway will span 16.5 kilometers and feature a four-lane elevated design to support round-the-clock movement of heavy vehicles. Once completed, it will reduce travel distance by approximately 26 kilometers, significantly easing traffic congestion in Karachi’s industrial and port areas.

By connecting Karachi Port directly to major arteries like the M-9 Motorway and Shahrah-e-Bhutto, the project aims to improve port logistics, boost trade efficiency, and reduce urban congestion caused by container traffic.

PPP Model and Funding Framework

Developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model, the project will operate on a user-pay system. The Sindh government will provide Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and a minimum revenue guarantee for 10 years to ensure financial sustainability and attract credible private sector partners.

The PPP Policy Board also approved the project’s scope, risk-sharing framework, and an unsolicited proposal to initiate competitive bidding for developer selection. The Chief Minister directed officials to fast-track project documentation so groundwork could begin promptly.

Integration with Karachi’s Transport Network

Design revisions were approved to better integrate the expressway with the Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor and mixed-traffic ramps, improving accessibility for both public and commercial transport. The updated design also aims to minimize land acquisition and enhance port entry and exit points to ensure seamless logistics movement.

Toward a Smarter, Connected Karachi

Once operational, the Karachi Port to Qayyumabad Elevated Expressway is expected to serve as a vital trade and mobility corridor, helping decongest inner-city routes while strengthening Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s economic gateway.

The project marks another milestone in Sindh’s infrastructure modernization agenda, reflecting the government’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility and efficient port operations through innovative public-private collaboration.

Afsheen Gohar

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