KARACHI: Altaf Shakoor, Chairman of the Pasban Democratic Party (PDP), has called on the Sindh government to urgently address Karachi’s public transport deficiencies by reviving the Karachi Transport Corporation (KTC) and its fleet of over 200 buses. This demand comes in light of Lahore’s recent advancements in establishing an electric tram system, highlighting Karachi’s lag in providing an adequate bus-based transit system.
Shakoor emphasized that resolving Karachi’s transport issues requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing infrastructure, governance, funding, and urban planning. He noted the presence of several KTC bus depots with workshops and numerous old buses that could be repaired and returned to service. A revitalized KTC, he argued, presents an immediate solution to the city’s transport challenges.
The PDP chairman further advocated for integrated mass transit systems, urging the government to complete and extend existing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines, such as the Green Line and Red Line, to reach more areas of the city. He also stressed the necessity of reviving the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) with modern electric trains to connect key hubs, as well as introducing underground subway lines in high-density areas like Saddar, Gulshan, and Nazimabad.
Shakoor called for improvements in existing transport modes, including better regulation of private buses and minibuses through enforced route permits, fare controls, and safety standards. He also proposed the establishment of a unified Transport Authority, such as a Karachi Metropolitan Transport Authority, to oversee all transit systems.
In addition, he advocated for the creation of dedicated bus lanes to reduce congestion and suggested reinstating government-run buses equipped with GPS tracking and fixed schedules.
These measures, Shakoor believes, are essential to transforming Karachi’s public transport landscape and meeting the needs of its rapidly growing population.