Sindh Senior Minister for Information, Transport, Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control, Sharjeel Inam Memon, announced the near completion of the Red Line BRT Tipu Sultan underpass. During a site visit, accompanied by journalists and key officials, he stated that the construction is progressing under the relentless guidance of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari. The underpass construction has been completed, with only the shattering work remaining, which is expected to be finalized within four days. The underpass and its adjacent road on Malir-Cantt Road will be officially opened to the public on October 31, a significant milestone for Karachi’s citizens.
Review of Red Line BRT Construction Progress
Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Red Line BRT project, which is set to become Pakistan’s first BRT system operating on biogas-powered V-buses. Spanning 26 kilometers, this project symbolizes the Sindh Government’s commitment to enhancing urban transportation. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon emphasized that while rural projects often progress quickly, urban initiatives face numerous challenges, including utility relocations. However, the Sindh Government has accelerated the project’s pace since assuming office, ensuring that no compromise on quality will be tolerated.
Overcoming Delays and Ensuring Timely Completion
Reflecting on the project’s past delays, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon pointed to the inattention of the previous caretaker government. He mentioned that the current administration has mobilized all necessary resources to ensure the project’s timely completion. He highlighted that the contractor had initially promised to finish the Tipu Sultan underpass two months ago, and this target has now been achieved.
Future Initiatives: Yellow Line BRT and Electric Taxis
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also announced the imminent launch of the Yellow Line BRT project, supported by the World Bank, as well as the introduction of electric taxis. The new taxi services will include a Pink Taxi specifically for women and an EV taxi for men, furthering the government’s mission to improve transportation under the leadership of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari.
Sindh Government’s Broader Vision for Development
In addressing various questions, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon criticized the previous PTI government for its lack of developmental achievements, contrasting it with the Pakistan People’s Party’s commitment to fulfilling its promises. He highlighted the ongoing construction of 2.1 million houses for Sindh’s flood victims, initiated by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and the progress in solarizing homes across Sindh to provide affordable electricity. He also noted the significant contributions of the Thar Coal project, conceived by Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto and realized by the current leadership, which is now supplying power to the National Grid.
Commitment to National Development
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon reiterated that the Sindh Government, under the People’s Party, is committed to involving all of Pakistan in its development journey. The vision is to see a prosperous Pakistan, where facilities and opportunities are accessible to every citizen, as exemplified by the ongoing Red Line BRT project and other initiatives.