The Karachi Water and Sewerage System Improvement Project (KWSSIP) has initiated new digging work, causing roadblocks and heavy traffic congestion along one of the city’s busiest routes — University Road.
Karachi has finally begun long-delayed work on its K-IV water augmentation project, marking an important step toward improving its supply network via new underground lines and expanded distribution systems.
Authorities stated that their expansion plan includes installing an extensive underground pipe network aimed at transporting water from Karachi’s K-4 main system to different areas through enhanced storage and distribution channels.
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This project will utilize three major reservoirs – R-1, R-2 and R-3 – enabling water to be transported across multiple neighborhoods via newly installed transmission lines that will enhance the city’s current system.
Authorities have started construction on a 2.7-kilometre stretch from Nipa to Hassan Square that will transport water from Reservoir R-2 into surrounding areas once complete.
Officials confirmed that initial construction activity has begun on a 150-metre section between Nipa and Urdu University’s main gate, where deep trenching and pipeline placement has already taken place.
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Under the R-2 supply route, water beginning its journey from Gadap will pass through multiple zones until reaching Gulbai, providing more reliable service in densely populated corridors.
Authorities stated University Road was chosen as the starting point so as to ensure work can be coordinated with BRT Red Line construction, thus minimizing disruptions as both projects advance further.
K-4 Enhancement involves installing massive, 96-inch diameter pipelines buried six metres beneath the surface – marking the first time such a massive water distribution pipe system will be deployed in Karachi’s distribution system.
Officials explained that expansion was essential in linking the city’s neighbourhood supply lines with K-4’s main transmission system, as its full efficiency cannot be realized without expanded secondary pipelines.
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Project costs totalling Rs66 billion are expected for this infrastructure upgrade that seeks to ensure water distribution throughout a city with chronic shortages.
Authorities estimate that the K-4 augmentation project will require several years for completion in multiple locations due to its scale, engineering complexity and need for coordination with ongoing urban development works.
University Road Diversions:
Due to the ongoing work, University Road will remain closed to traffic from November 10, 2025, until December 30, 2025.
Motorists have been advised to use alternate routes to avoid congestion and delays.
Traffic police will soon release an updated diversion plan to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure minimal disruption during the construction period.
Commuters are urged to follow the instructions of traffic personnel and allow extra travel time while the work is in progress.
