Karachi BRT Red Line work slows again amid governance concerns

KARACHI: Work on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project has once again slowed to a near standstill, with major portions of the corridor lying inactive, raising renewed concerns over governance and project management.

The project, divided into two main sections — Lot 1 (Airport signal to Mosamiyat) and Lot 2 (Mosamiyat to Numaish) — continues to face persistent hurdles, particularly in the second segment, which is larger and more complex.

Lot 2 has been marred by recurring disruptions. Last year, construction was halted for months due to financial disputes between the contractor and authorities, even prompting court intervention before payments were eventually cleared. Despite assurances that the issues had been resolved, progress has once again slowed considerably.

On-ground observations indicate minimal activity across key stretches. From People’s Chowrangi to Hassan Square, construction sites appear largely deserted, with little to no machinery in operation. Only a small number of labourers and a few idle machines were seen, with no active work underway.

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Further along the Hassan Square to Nipa corridor, construction has been halted due to the laying of the K-IV water pipeline, adding to delays in an already troubled timeline. Even in areas where equipment is present, a lack of operators and visible activity reflects the slowdown.

The repeated stoppages have intensified concerns about administrative oversight and coordination between relevant agencies, particularly for a project considered vital for Karachi’s urban transport infrastructure.

Meanwhile, residents continue to bear the brunt of the delays, facing traffic congestion, disrupted routes and growing uncertainty over when the project will be completed.