Mustehkam Pakistan, a dedicated advocacy firm committed to safeguarding community interests, expresses deep concern over the ongoing disruptions faced by residents and commuters in Karachi due to prolonged delays in completing the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. These delays have exacerbated severe health, economic, and environmental challenges within the city.
The construction activities have caused significant disruptions, including dug-up roads, open drains, and excessive dust, posing serious issues for both residents and commuters.
Reports from the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) indicate a substantial deterioration in Karachi’s air quality, with particulate matter (PM) levels surpassing the safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The combination of construction work and increased traffic congestion has further compounded these challenges, jeopardizing the health of millions of Karachiites. These risks, along with the mental stress and anxiety of navigating disrupted roads, are negatively impacting the well-being of Karachi’s residents.
Fawad Khan, spokesperson for Mustehkam Pakistan, emphasizes the urgent need for the government to expedite the completion of the Red Line BRT project, highlighting that the delays are not just inconveniences but are leading to serious health concerns and significant economic challenges for local businesses and the people of Karachi.
It’s worth noting that the Red Line BRT project, launched in March 2022 with an estimated completion time of 30 months, has now surpassed two years, with construction still ongoing. The government has revised the completion target to June 2026.
Muhammad Arham, a commuter affected by the delays, expresses frustration, stating: “The BRT project has turned my daily commute into a headache, significantly increasing travel times and causing mental stress.”
Mustehkam Pakistan urges all stakeholders to prioritize the timely completion of the Red Line BRT project to mitigate health hazards, economic impacts, and environmental effects on the people of Karachi.
