SHC Issues Notices to Karachi Mayor, Sindh Officials Over Delays in BRT Project

Karachi: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the Sindh Chief Secretary, Karachi Mayor, Sindh Mass Transit Authority, Trans Karachi, and others on a petition challenging delays in the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project.

During the hearing, the petitioner Asif Iqbal’s counsel, Advocate Umar Memon, argued that the BRT Red Line project was announced in 2017 and was originally scheduled for completion in 2023. However, repeated extensions were granted, and the completion deadline has now been pushed to 2026.

The petitioner maintained that the project, aimed at providing better transport facilities to citizens, has instead become a source of suffering due to mismanagement. The initial estimated cost of Rs79 billion has risen to Rs103 billion because of repeated design changes, particularly due to utility relocations.

He further pointed out that during monsoon rains, dug-up roads, incomplete construction, and unsafe passages have caused accidents. The Sindh Mass Transit Authority, responsible for overseeing the project, has failed to perform its duty, while the Asian Development Bank — also involved as a funding overseer — has not ensured proper use of funds.

The court issued notices to all concerned parties, directing them to submit replies by September 9.