Traffic chaos continues to grip Karachi as office-goers remain stuck on University Road due to fresh delays in the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project.
Work on the BRT Red Line has once again slowed to a near standstill, with multiple stretches showing little to no activity on the ground. The project, divided into two key sections from Airport signal to Mosamiyat and from Mosamiyat to Numaish, has particularly seen persistent issues in the larger Mosamiyat to Numaish segment.
This section had already faced a lengthy suspension last year due to payment disputes between the contractor and authorities, even prompting court intervention before work resumed. Despite assurances of resolution, progress has once again weakened significantly.
Recent site observations reveal minimal construction activity across major points. From areas like People’s Chowrangi to Hasan Square, only a handful of workers and idle machinery can be seen, with no visible operations underway.
Meanwhile, work between Hasan Square and Nipa remains halted due to the ongoing installation of the K-IV water pipeline, adding further delays to the already troubled project. Even in locations where machinery is present, operations appear suspended.
The repeated slowdowns have sparked concerns over administrative efficiency and oversight of one of the city’s most critical transport initiatives. In the meantime, residents, especially daily commuters, continue to suffer from severe traffic congestion, disrupted routes, and growing uncertainty over when the project will finally be completed.
Karachi water crisis eases as supply from old Hub Canal restored
On the other hand, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) has completed repairs to the Hub Canal, restoring water supply to the city via the old canal. However, supply from the new canal remains suspended.
According to media reports, the new canal has been closed since March 12. A spokesperson explained that recent rains caused a heavy buildup of sand and mud in the canal, delaying its reopening. Cleaning operations are currently underway to remove the debris.
It confirmed that development work at Zero Point on the Hub Canal has also been completed. Following this progress, water supply has been regularly restored to District West and Keamari via the Hub Pumping Station. Authorities say further improvements are expected once the new canal is fully operational.
Intake chamber constructed at Zero Point on Hub Canal
An intake chamber has been constructed at Zero Point on the Hub Canal to connect the upstream and downstream sections effectively.
With the completion of this key infrastructure, both canals are now connected to the Hub Dam at Zero Point, making the water delivery system more stable and reliable.
The completion of this project is expected to significantly improve the water supply, particularly in District West and Keamari. This initiative will not only increase water availability but also reduce technical issues during distribution.
The Water Corporation has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing reform and development efforts to ensure a better, more consistent, and uninterrupted water supply for citizens.
Also read: CM Sindh approves Phase II of Safe City project across Karachi
