The Sindh government has announced a significant allocation of funds, amounting to Rs8.05 billion, in the fiscal year 2023-24 budget for the development of transport and mass transit projects in the province. This investment aims to bolster transportation infrastructure and improve urban transportation services.
Of the total funds, Rs7 billion will be allocated to 15 ongoing schemes, while Rs1.49 billion will be dedicated to 27 new schemes. The budget document highlights specific allocations, with Rs580 million earmarked for the Karachi Orange Line, Rs4 billion for the Karachi Red Line, and Rs40 million for the Karachi Yellow Line.
Furthermore, Rs1.15 billion has been set aside for the procurement of buses, aiming to enhance urban transportation services in various cities across the province. This investment will contribute to improving the efficiency and accessibility of public transportation.
To address traffic congestion and improve connectivity, Rs100 million has been allocated for the construction of flyovers and underpasses along the Karachi Circular Railway track. These infrastructure developments will facilitate smoother traffic flow and provide better connectivity within the metropolitan city.
Significant funding has been allocated for key projects, such as the Red Line and Yellow Line projects. The Red Line project, funded by the Asian Development Bank, has received Rs4 billion in the provincial budget, bringing the total investment in this project to over Rs12 billion. Similarly, the Yellow Line project, funded by the World Bank, has been allocated Rs400 million, resulting in a total investment of Rs5.25 billion from the Sindh government.
In addition to these projects, Rs6 billion has been earmarked for the construction of upper and underground passages along the Circular Railway track. These passages will enhance pedestrian safety and facilitate the movement of people in densely populated areas.
The development portfolio of the Sindh government also includes several public-private partnership projects valued at Rs487 million. Notably, projects worth Rs60 billion have already been completed, while projects worth Rs144 billion are progressing at various stages. The bidding process is currently underway for projects worth an impressive Rs283 billion.
The substantial allocation of funds in the budget reflects the Sindh government’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure and enhancing urban transportation services in Karachi and other cities across the province. These initiatives aim to provide efficient, safe, and accessible transportation options for the residents, ultimately contributing to the overall development and progress of the region.
