Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, continues to experience rapid urbanization, creating immense pressure on its infrastructure. To address these challenges, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has called for the acceleration of key projects in the city. At a recent progress review meeting, CM Shah stressed the urgent need to expedite work on three major infrastructure projects: the Karimabad Underpass, the Korangi Causeway Bridge, and the Malir Expressway.
Key Infrastructure Projects in Focus
The CM emphasized that these infrastructure projects are critical to Karachi’s development and growth. The Karachi Development Authority (KDA) is overseeing the construction of the Karimabad Underpass, a 1,080-meter project aimed at easing traffic congestion. CM Shah noted that these projects are not just important for improving traffic flow, but also for enhancing the city’s overall urban infrastructure. He vowed to personally monitor the progress to ensure timely completion.
Progress on the Karimabad Underpass
The Karimabad Underpass, with an estimated cost of PKR 3.8 million, is a major development aimed at improving traffic management. This underpass will feature two lanes in each direction and is designed to alleviate congestion in one of Karachi’s busiest areas. As of the latest update, 30% of the work has been completed. Notable milestones include the installation of 151 out of 212 pre-cast girders. The CM has instructed the Local Government Minister, Saeed Ghani, to closely supervise this project.
Meena Bazaar and Bazaar Faisal Roundabouts
To further enhance traffic management, the project also includes the construction of new roundabouts at Meena Bazaar and Bazaar Faisal. These roundabouts will help reduce bottlenecks, improving the overall traffic flow in the area. CM Shah has emphasized that these changes are vital to the success of the broader Karimabad Underpass project, which is part of Sindh’s broader urban development strategy. The government aims to make these upgrades a priority for the city’s long-term development.
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Korangi Causeway Bridge: A Lifeline for Karachi’s Infrastructure
Another vital project in Karachi’s urban development plan is the Korangi Causeway Bridge. This PKR 6.4 billion project is designed to ease traffic on one of Karachi’s busiest routes. Spanning 1,385 meters, the bridge will also feature additional loops and ramps, extending 2.5 kilometers. While only 30% of the work has been completed, significant progress has been made, with 504 out of 600 girders and 300 out of 400 piles already installed.
Accelerating Work on the Korangi Causeway Bridge
CM Shah has urged the project’s directors to speed up the construction of the Korangi Causeway Bridge to meet the designated completion timelines. Given the bridge’s strategic importance in improving connectivity between different parts of the city, the Sindh government is making every effort to ensure its timely delivery. The completion of this bridge will be a significant achievement in Karachi’s ongoing infrastructure development.
Malir Expressway: Connecting Key Areas in Karachi
The Malir Expressway, a 38.8-kilometer route connecting Jam Sadiq Bridge to Kathore, is another major infrastructure project underway in Karachi. CM Shah has set a firm deadline for Phase One of this project, which extends from Jam Sadiq Bridge to Shah Faisal. The CM has instructed that Phase One be completed by December 25, 2024. This expressway is expected to provide a much-needed link between key areas in the city, improving transportation options for residents.
Upgrades to Roads Leading to the Airport
As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance Karachi’s infrastructure, CM Shah has also directed Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab to ensure the improvement of roads leading from Shah Faisal to the airport. This will help improve access to one of the city’s busiest transportation hubs, which is crucial for both domestic and international travelers. The focus on the Malir Expressway and its surrounding roads reflects the government’s commitment to addressing Karachi’s transportation needs.
Collaborative Efforts for Karachi’s Growth
The meeting, attended by several key officials including Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, underscored the collaborative approach needed to tackle Karachi’s infrastructure challenges. CM Shah emphasized that these projects would not only improve traffic management but also play a key role in enhancing the city’s overall livability and connectivity. By addressing critical infrastructure gaps, the Sindh government aims to position Karachi as a modern, well-connected metropolis.
Conclusion
With these critical infrastructure projects, Karachi’s development is poised for a significant boost. The Sindh government, under the leadership of CM Shah, is focusing on projects that will directly impact the quality of life for residents and improve the city’s overall functionality. These projects are integral to the government’s broader vision of modernizing Karachi’s infrastructure and ensuring its sustainable growth in the coming decades. As the work progresses, Karachi’s future as a thriving global city looks promising.
