Murad reviews Karachi Red Line work, sets June 15 for Azeempura flyover opening

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Sunday reviewed progress on the Bus Rapid Transit Red Line project and the newly opened Shahrah-i-Bhutto, while announcing that the Azeempura Flyover would be opened on June 15.

According to the details shared during the visit, the chief minister has now made his fifth consecutive Sunday inspection of major development schemes in Karachi amid criticism over the city’s deteriorating infrastructure and traffic problems. He was accompanied by Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi, Additional IG Karachi Azad Khan and other senior officials.

Red Line progress reviewed

Mr Shah began his inspection at the Dawood University roundabout and travelled up to Safoora Chowrangi to assess work on the BRT Red Line. Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon and TransKarachi CEO Zubair Channa briefed him on progress on the section from Numaish to Mosamiyat.

The chief minister expressed satisfaction over the pace of visible work and described the Red Line as one of Karachi’s most important urban transport projects. He directed all executing agencies and contractors to keep up the pace and complete the work on time.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Shah said: "We are personally monitoring the project every Sunday because Karachiites deserve a modern, efficient and environment-friendly transport system."

He also instructed contractors to increase manpower and machinery where needed, and told utility agencies to work closely with TransKarachi and the Frontier Works Organisation so that relocation work could be completed without avoidable delays.

The chief minister further emphasised traffic management and public convenience during construction, directing officials to reduce disruption for commuters and ensure safety arrangements at all active sites.

Flyover opening date announced

During the visit, Mr Shah also inspected the Azeempura Flyover project and said it would be opened on June 15. He was informed that the flyover is expected to help reduce congestion and improve connectivity between Azeempura and the Malir Halt-Korangi Road corridor, easing pressure on Sharea Faisal and nearby roads.

Directions for Shahrah-i-Bhutto

The chief minister later visited Shahrah-i-Bhutto to examine security and traffic management arrangements. He directed the additional inspector general of Karachi to set up police check posts at every interchange along the road.

Mr Shah also ordered the immediate activation of the e-challan system and directed enforcement of the 100 kilometres per hour speed limit and seat-belt regulations. He further said that wrong-way driving would not be tolerated and ordered a ban on motorcycles on Shahrah-i-Bhutto, along with round-the-clock police patrolling.