Sindh moves to secure depot land for 50 double-decker and 500 electric buses

KARACHI: Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said on Saturday that the provincial government is adding 50 double-decker buses and 500 electric buses to the transport network as it works to improve public transport across the province.

Memon was chairing a meeting on land allocation for bus depots and transport planning linked to several public transport projects. The session was attended by Transport Secretary Asad Zamin, Karachi Development Authority Director General Asif Jan Siddiqui, deputy commissioners from Malir, Korangi, Karachi Central and Karachi West, along with senior officials from relevant departments.

Officials briefed the meeting on land requirements for public transport schemes, including space needed for bus parking and operational support facilities. The availability of government land in different districts, proposed locations and future requirements were reviewed to determine suitable sites for bus depots.

Memon directed officials to complete the identification and allocation of appropriate land for depots without delay. He also told deputy commissioners to locate vacant government land in their respective districts for the construction of modern depots for mass transit projects.

Speaking during the meeting, Memon said:

"The timely availability of proper depots and operational infrastructure is essential for the success of these projects"

He added that all relevant institutions should finalise land identification and other required arrangements as early as possible through coordination with one another.

The senior minister also reiterated the Sindh government’s stated commitment to providing residents with modern, comfortable and environmentally friendly public transport facilities. He said the aim is to put the new buses on the roads for public service at the earliest, adding that ongoing transport projects would significantly reshape the province’s public transport system.