Karachi BRT Connectivity Enhanced for Commuters
Karachi BRT Connectivity has received a significant boost with the inauguration of the integrated operations between the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Orange Line and Green Line. This linkage now provides seamless travel for citizens from Orangi Town directly to Numaish, addressing a long-standing demand for unified transit.
Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon officially announced the connection at the Orange Line depot. Previously, commuters faced the inconvenience of purchasing two separate tickets to complete their journey where the lines met. The Orange Line runs from Orangi Town to North Nazimabad, while the Green Line connects Surjani Town with Numaish via North Nazimabad.
Streamlining Travel with United BRT Services
The integration means commuters can now complete their entire journey on a single ticket, significantly enhancing travel convenience. Minister Memon highlighted that this streamlined system is expected to benefit approximately 100,000 people daily, offering a more efficient and affordable option for daily transit. The fares for these BRT services have been deliberately kept low to ensure accessibility for a wide range of citizens.
Data reveals a positive trend in ridership for the Green Line. The daily passenger count has increased from around 55,000 during the previous federal government’s tenure to an estimated 80,000, underscoring the growing reliance on public transport in Karachi. SindhNews.com reports that security cameras and other facilities are standard on the buses, with plans for separate buses dedicated to women on both the Green and Orange Lines.
Expanding Karachi’s Transport Network
Beyond the BRT connection, Minister Memon also unveiled plans for new transport initiatives. Double-decker buses are set to launch, operating on the route from Malir to Sharea Faisal. The government anticipates introducing more double-decker buses in the future to further alleviate traffic congestion across the city. Additionally, new electric vehicle (EV) buses have arrived, hinting at future upgrades to the public transport fleet.
The Sindh government has requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to fulfill his promise of delivering 150 buses for Karachi, which would further bolster the city’s public transportation capacity.
The enhanced Karachi BRT connectivity represents a significant step towards improving urban mobility for its residents. By integrating key routes and introducing new services, the provincial government aims to provide a more convenient, affordable, and robust public transport network for the bustling metropolis.