A target has been set for opening the mixed-traffic lane on University Road in Karachi. At a meeting of Trans Karachi, progress on the BRT Red Line project was reviewed. The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) has set a target of opening the mixed-traffic lane on University Road by September 15, while the Meteorological Flyover is expected to be completed and opened to mixed traffic by September 20.
It has also been decided to open the left-hand carriageway from Hassan Square to NIPA Bridge in the third week of September. Officials said the delay in completing the road section from Hassan Square to NIPA was caused by the installation of a new sewer line. A new sewerage system is being laid to serve buildings along University Road.
Meanwhile, construction work in the water tanker area near Samama and NIPA is in its final stages. Resurfacing work is progressing rapidly at various locations around Samama and NIPA. However, the newly resurfaced sections cannot be opened to traffic immediately, as they require adequate curing time before being put into use.
The ongoing work is expected to be completed by the end of September. According to transport authorities, construction work has also been delayed at some locations due to underground crossings of K-Electric infrastructure. Efforts are being made to resolve these and other utility-related issues, including underground crossings. The issues are being addressed on a priority basis to ensure uninterrupted construction activities.
In addition, construction of a 12-kilometre-long stormwater drainage system is underway as part of the Red Line project. The drainage works also require adequate curing time and are expected to be completed by the end of September. Trans Karachi officials said the Red Line project is facing several on-ground challenges at various locations. Despite these challenges, construction activities are continuing. The administration has expressed full confidence in the pace and quality of the FWO’s construction work.