Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and a high-level delegation led by Asian Development Bank Country Director Ema Fen held a key meeting at the Chief Minister’s House to discuss urban transport initiatives in Sindh.
The officials reached a consensus on reviving the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) and introducing electric bus services in divisional headquarters across the province. The Chief Minister highlighted that feeder services for various BRT lines are essential for efficient connectivity, while technical and financial support from ADB could transform Karachi’s mass transit system.
“KCR’s revival will reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and stimulate economic activity,” Murad Ali Shah said.
Ema Fen confirmed ADB’s financial backing in principle for the KCR project and advised the Sindh government to submit the required documentation for bank board approval. The meeting also reviewed ongoing projects, including the Karachi BRT Red Line, and discussed a nearly $3 billion development program for 2026–2029 covering transport, urban development, health, education, water, rural development, and environmental resilience.
Discussions included launching electric bus services under sustainable mobility in four cities. The Chief Minister emphasized that clean, green transport would enhance urban mobility, mitigate climate change impacts, and reduce fuel dependency. He also noted talks on project co-financing and readiness.
Post-2022 flood recovery, timely project completion, transparency, and quality assurance were underscored. Both sides agreed on enhancing project preparation, approvals, and institutional capacity to ensure priority projects are included in the 2026–2028 program.
Attendees included the Chief Secretary, Planning & Development Chairman Najm Shah, CM Secretary Asif Jamil, and ADB officials including Nisanka Salgado, Khayam Abbasi, and Salman Mian. Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed Sindh’s commitment to strengthen its partnership with ADB, promising faster implementation, stronger governance, and tangible results for citizens.
