Sindh Transport and Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Thursday announced that the provincial government plans to operate double-decker buses on Karachi roads this year and has already started preparations for their procurement.
Addressing the media in Karachi, the provincial minister stated, “This year, double-decker buses will be procured and will ply in Karachi’s Sharae Faisal.” He further added, “The Sindh government is working on transport projects across the province and will use double-decker buses in Sharae Faisal this year.”
The minister also clarified that there have been no delays to the Red Line BRT project due to the actions of the provincial government, explaining that the delay was due to the relocation of public services.
Sharjeel Memon emphasized the special attention that President Asif Ali Zardari pays to the business community and said: “President Bilawal Bhutto, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and the Sindh government take the concerns of the business community seriously and recognize their role crucial in the country’s economy.”
He also expressed full support for the proposal to create new industrial zones, noting that the Dhabeji Economic Zone, a key project in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is an important initiative. However, he noted that the IMF program restricts the creation of additional special economic zones.
On transportation, Memon announced that President Bilawal Bhutto’s inauguration of the Malir Expressway will take place in two days, calling it “a gift from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) to the residents of Karachi.” He also mentioned that a KATI representative would be specially invited to the next Yellow Line BRT board meeting. Furthermore, he expressed the goal of completing the work on the Jam Sadiq Bridge in eight months.
The minister highlighted the government’s current subsidies for public transport in Karachi, mentioning the introduction of electric vehicle (EV) buses and women-specific buses, a first for Pakistan.
