Karachi: Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan on Tuesday (August 10) visited Karachi, where he was informed about the progress of ongoing projects under the Karachi Transformation Plan (KPT), according to media reports.
Governor Sindh Imran Ismail, Minister for Defence Production Zubaida Jalal, Minister for Maritime Affairs Syed Ali Zaidi, Minister for Railways Azam Swati, Minister for Planning Asad Umar, and other senior officials were present for the meeting.
During the meeting the PM was briefed on the rehabilitation of three nullahs; Orangi, Gujjar, and Mahmoodabad and restoration of two rivers; Lyari and Malir. Also, the PM was informed about the construction of roads along the nullahs, laying of sewerage system, and relocation of utilities.
Moreover, the Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) disclosed that the NED study of the nullahs was completed and an anti-encroachment drive was in progress. It was also reported that the RCC walls work will pick up the pace at the other two nullahs as well. The remaining civil works are anticipated to be completed by June 2022.
The PM was also informed about the latest updates on the BRT projects. It was reported that by mid-September, 80 buses will reach Karachi port from China and the Green Line Operations will start by October this year. Reportedly, the federal government has asked the Sindh Infrastructure Development Co. Ltd. (SIDCL) to acquire 20 buses for Orange Line, which are expected to reach Karachi by December 2021.
In addition to these projects, PM Khan was briefed about the railway projects; Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) and Freight Corridor from Keamari to Pipri Marshalling Yard. The Freight Corridor project includes the construction/dualization of a 50-km freight corridor from Karachi Port to Pipri and the development of an Inland Container Depot/ Marshalling Yard at Pipri. The feasibility study of the project has been sent for approval. Once approved, the project is expected to be delivered October 2021.
The KCR project includes the construction of a 43-km long affordable mass transit system, which will use eco-friendly electric trains. The draft feasibility study has been submitted and after the approval by Public-Private Partnership Authority (PPPA), the project will be floated in the market in November 2021.
Chairman Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) informed the PM that the joint cross-sectional study of the K-IV project was completed up to 85 km. It was reported that the final design is expected to be complete by October 2021. However, the civil works are likely to start by February next year and will be completed by October 2023.
Iqra holds BS in International Relations and is passionate about writing engaging content on trending real estate topics. When not working, she is either spending time with family, shopping, or discussing shows & movies.
