The citizens of Karachi are facing a severe daily transport crisis, which has been further exacerbated by constant traffic jams and the availability of expensive, substandard public transport, while a key solution, Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), is a victim of government indifference.
Abdul Hakeem Qaid, President of Pasban Democratic Party Karachi, said in a statement today that Karachi Circular Railway is the foundation of an effective public transport network in a metropolis like Karachi. He expressed regret over the apparent lack of seriousness from Pakistan Railways and the federal and provincial administrations for the revival of this important project.
Speaking to a public delegation at the Pasban Public Secretariat, Mr. Qaid emphasized that if KCR is revived, it can significantly reduce urban traffic problems, providing millions of residents with an economical, safe, and fast transit option. He lamented that Karachi, the economic hub of the country, struggles with such deficiencies in basic services.
The Pasban leader questioned where the city’s public should go for solutions to their problems and how public trust can be restored when responsible institutions and governments fail to fulfill their duties.
Consequently, the Pasban Democratic Party requested both federal and provincial authorities to take immediate steps for the rapid revival of Karachi Circular Railway. They also demanded a specific timeline for the project’s completion and its modern, world-class upgrade.
Referring to the successful operation of the Orange Line Metro Train in Lahore, Mr. Qaid mentioned that this project provides fast, safe, and reliable travel facilities. He suggested that if a modern urban railway system can succeed elsewhere, then a similar approach can be adopted for the revival of the Circular Railway in Karachi, thus addressing the long-standing concerns of the citizens.