Karachi’s Green Line Phase-II Set to Kick Off After Prolonged Hiatus
After a six-year pause, work on Phase-II of the Karachi Green Line Bus project is finally poised to begin this week, signaling a renewed push to advance public transport in Pakistan’s largest city. Officials confirmed the resumption of construction, marking a pivotal moment for commuters who have long awaited a faster, more reliable bus-based transit option.
What Phase-II Entails
Phase-II is designed to extend the Green Line corridor, integrating additional bus lanes, stations, and supportive infrastructure to streamline flow across key urban hubs. The expansion aims to shorten travel times, reduce congestion on major arteries, and facilitate smoother connections with other mass transit modes. City planners emphasize that the project not only improves mobility but also supports economic activity by making daily commutes more predictable.
Officials Speak on Restart
Federal government spokesperson for Sindh, Barrister Raja Ansari, told The Express Tribune that the project’s revival reflects a long-term strategy to modernize Karachi’s public transport. Ansari noted that the six-year delay was addressed through interdepartmental coordination and a revised implementation plan designed to align with current funding and logistical realities. He stressed that the restart would be carried out under strict timelines to minimize disruption for residents and commuters alike.
Impact on Commuters and City Life
The phased resumption is expected to bring noticeable relief to thousands who face daily traffic jams and limited mobility options. Local businesses anticipate improved access to commercial districts as the Green Line corridor expands, potentially stimulating trade and job opportunities along the route. City officials also say the Phase-II project includes modern accessibility features to serve riders with varying needs, such as dedicated boarding areas and improved safety measures at stations.
Funding, Oversight, and Timelines
Funding for Phase-II remains aligned with federal and provincial collaborations, with oversight to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. The restart is framed as part of a broader push to enhance Karachi’s resilience through sustainable transport solutions. While the exact completion date remains contingent on procurement and on-the-ground conditions, authorities stress a commitment to maintaining transparent updates for the public as milestones are achieved.
What This Means for the Future of Public Transit in Karachi
Resuming Phase-II signals a renewed confidence in expanding bus rapid transit capabilities in Karachi. As the city continues to grapple with rapid urban growth, the Green Line project could serve as a model for efficient, lower-emission mobility. If successful, the Phase-II expansion may pave the way for further enhancements to the city’s transit network, encouraging modal shifts from private vehicles to mass transit.
In the weeks ahead, residents and commuters should stay alert for official announcements detailing exact launch dates, progress updates, and any temporary traffic arrangements tied to construction activities. The return of Phase-II is not just a construction milestone; it represents a long-awaited commitment to a more connected, accessible Karachi.
