Sindh Transport and Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced on Thursday that the provincial government plans to operate double-decker buses on Karachi’s roads this year and has already begun preparations for their procurement.
Addressing the media in Karachi, the provincial minister stated, “Double-decker buses will be procured in the current year and will run on Karachi’s Sharae Faisal.” He further added, “Sindh government is working on transport projects across the province and will run double decker buses on Sharae Faisal this year.”
The minister also clarified that there has been no delay in the Red Line BRT project due to the actions of the provincial government, explaining that the delay was caused by the relocation of utilities.
Sharjeel Memon emphasized the special attention given by President Asif Ali Zardari to the business community, saying, “President Bilawal Bhutto, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and the Sindh government take the concerns of the business community seriously, recognizing its vital role in the country’s economy.”
He also expressed full support for the proposal to create new industrial zones and noted that the Dhabeji Economic Zone, a key project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is an important initiative. However, he pointed out that the IMF program limits the creation of additional special economic zones.
On transport, Memon announced that the inauguration of the Malir Expressway by President Bilawal Bhutto will take place in two days, describing it as a “gift from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to the people of Karachi.” He also mentioned that a representative from KATI would be specially invited to the upcoming board meeting of the yellow line BRT. Additionally, he expressed the goal of completing the work on the Jam Sadiq Bridge within eight months.
The minister highlighted the government’s ongoing subsidy for public transport in Karachi and mentioned the introduction of electric vehicle (EV) buses and women-specific buses, which are the first in Pakistan.
