Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah declared on Sunday that Shahrah-e-Bhutto will be opened to traffic ahead of Eid ul Adha, calling it an “Eid gift for the people of Karachi.” This announcement came after his inspection of key infrastructure projects across the city.
He highlighted that the new road will significantly alleviate traffic congestion within Karachi by improving connectivity between the M-9 and N-5 highways. The CM noted that diverting heavy traffic outside the city limits will provide much-needed relief to residents. He emphasized that Shahrah-e-Bhutto is more than just a road project; it is a vital artery for Karachi’s economic vitality.
During his visit to the under-construction Azeempura flyover at Shah Faisal Colony, part of the Shahrah-e-Bhutto corridor near the Shah Faisal Interchange, Murad Ali Shah instructed Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab to ensure the flyover’s completion within 90 days. This flyover aims to offer a signal-free route for traffic moving to and from Jinnah Terminal and surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, the Sindh CM also urged authorities to expedite progress on the Karachi Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line corridor. He mandated that all mixed-traffic lanes along the Red Line be finished within two months, stressing that both the Red Line and Shahrah-e-Bhutto are crucial transport corridors for the city. He warned against any unnecessary delays or compromises in quality.
In a related development, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon addressed the delays in the BRT Red Line project. He explained that challenging but essential decisions were made to push the work forward, dismissing claims of government negligence. Memon noted that construction on Lot-1 and Lot-2 is now advancing steadily, especially after the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) took over responsibilities.
The minister revealed that the previous contractor had been warned and payments cleared, but progress remained slow. Acknowledging the inconvenience faced by commuters due to ongoing construction, Memon stressed that urban infrastructure projects like this involve complex challenges. Unlike other areas, shutting down utilities such as gas, electricity, and water lines immediately is not feasible in a city like Karachi.
He concluded by stating that efforts are underway to reopen mixed-traffic lanes by the end of July to help ease congestion and improve commuter experience.
