Senior Provincial Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has announced several positive developments for Karachi residents as the new year begins, particularly in the city’s public transport sector.
While inaugurating the project to merge the Orange Line with the Green Line BRT, Sharjeel Inam Memon stated that the four-kilometre Edhi Orange Line track has now been successfully connected to the Green Line. This integration will significantly ease travel for residents commuting from the Orange Line areas to destinations such as Numaish and Nagan Chowrangi.
He explained that the Sindh government developed the new Edhi Orange Line BRT corridor after receiving complaints from passengers regarding travel difficulties. With the merger now complete, commuters will no longer be required to pay separate fares for each BRT line, making public transport more affordable and convenient.
Sharjeel Memon highlighted that since the Sindh government assumed control of the Green Line BRT, daily ridership has increased from 55,000 to 75,000 passengers. The government aims to raise this figure to 100,000 daily commuters across the Green Line and Edhi Orange Line BRT services.
He also announced that Sindh has launched a women-only BRT service for the first time in the region, marking a major step towards safer public transport for women. Additionally, double-decker buses will be introduced in Karachi at the start of the new year, while new electric vehicle (EV) buses have already arrived in the city.
The minister further revealed that People’s Bus routes are being expanded to Hyderabad, and services are being launched in Khairpur, Shikarpur, and Tando Allahyar. Meanwhile, Right of Way work has commenced on the Red Line BRT project.
Addressing social issues, Sharjeel Memon warned against the misuse of children and the spread of false narratives through social media. He condemned violence and extremism, stating that no objectives are ever achieved through explosions or attacks on one’s own country and people.
He reaffirmed that the government will not allow illegal occupation of state land and urged the Prime Minister to fulfil the promise of providing 150 buses for Karachi.
Regarding double-decker buses, Sharjeel Memon said they will initially operate on an experimental basis from Malir to Shahrah-e-Faisal, with more buses to be added later. He expressed confidence that these buses would help reduce traffic congestion. He also stressed the importance of promoting tolerance in society, condemning recent incidents of violence shared on social media and stating that the law will take strict action against such acts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main announcement made for Karachi residents?
The main announcement is the merger of the Edhi Orange Line with the Green Line BRT, allowing seamless travel without paying separate fares.
2. How will the BRT merger benefit commuters?
The merger will make travel easier, faster, and more affordable for passengers travelling between Orange Line areas, Numaish, and Nagan Chowrangi.
3. Has BRT ridership increased?
Yes, daily ridership on the Green Line has increased from 55,000 to 75,000 passengers since the Sindh government took over its management.
4. Are there any new transport services being introduced?
Yes, women-only BRT services, double-decker buses, and new electric buses are being introduced in Karachi.
5. Where will double-decker buses operate?
Initially, double-decker buses will run on an experimental basis from Malir to Shahrah-e-Faisal.
6. Are public transport services expanding beyond Karachi?
Yes, People’s Bus services are being expanded to Hyderabad and launched in Khairpur, Shikarpur, and Tando Allahyar.
7. What is the government’s target for daily BRT passengers?
The Sindh government aims to reach 100,000 daily passengers across the Green Line and Edhi Orange Line BRT.
8. What action will be taken against violence and intolerance?
Sharjeel Inam Memon stated that violence is unacceptable in any form, and strict legal action will be taken against those involved.
