KARACHI: Senior Provincial Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Friday announced that extensive development work is underway across the city, promising that modern buses will soon operate on every major road in Karachi.
During a session of the Sindh Assembly, the Minister addressed several key issues regarding the city’s transport and infrastructure. Responding to queries from MQM members regarding the restoration of the Red Bus route in Model Colony, Memon revealed that additional buses have already arrived at Karachi Port and will be integrated into the fleet soon.
Traffic Management and Smart Systems
Memon briefed the house on the implementation of a “Smart Traffic System.” He explained that the city’s traffic management currently operates on both automatic and manual modes.
“Signals and U-turns are being designed and installed based on the specific recommendations of the Traffic Department to ensure smoother flow and reduce congestion,” the Minister stated.
Inter-City Transport and Shuttle Services
To tackle the worsening traffic gridlock caused by inter-city bus stands within the city center, the Transport Department has shifted operations to the outskirts. Memon highlighted that a free shuttle service is currently operational from the Sohrab Goth bus terminal, managed by the terminal operators at no cost to the provincial exchequer.
Empowering Women: Pink Scooty Scheme
The Minister shared an encouraging update regarding women’s mobility, noting that over 15,000 women have applied for the Pink Scooty scheme. He mentioned that private companies are providing free training, and scooties will be distributed to those who successfully pass the mandatory driving tests.
Infrastructure Investment
Addressing the state of the city’s roads, Memon emphasized that mega-projects are in full swing.
- Collaborative Efforts: KMC and the Local Government Department are actively constructing new arteries.
- Funding: Sindh Chief Minister has recently allocated Rs. 90 billion specifically for Karachi’s infrastructure development.
Sindh Assembly to Host Commonwealth Conference
Earlier in the session, Speaker Syed Awais Qadir Shah announced that after 14 years, the Sindh Assembly would host the Commonwealth Conference on February 4. The assembly unanimously approved a motion moved by Sharjeel Memon to convert the Assembly Hall into a conference hall for this prestigious international event.
The session began with prayers for the martyrs of the Gul Plaza tragedy, victims of recent traffic accidents in Karachi, and the overall security of Pakistan.
