The revival of talks on the Karachi Circular Railway gained fresh momentum following high-level discussions between the Sindh government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Both sides agreed in principle to move ahead with restoring the long-delayed rail project and expanding electric bus services across major cities in Sindh.
The meeting took place at the CM House, where Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met an ADB delegation led by Country Director Emma Fan. Transport development projects were a key focus, with the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) placed at the top of the agenda.
Murad Ali Shah described KCR as a flagship project for the province. He said Karachi urgently needs a functioning circular railway to serve as a feeder system for existing and planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines.
Karachi Circular Railway Revival Talks With ADB
During talks on the revival of the Karachi Circular Railway, the Sindh government sought both financial and technical assistance to relaunch the project. Officials said the goal is to introduce modern infrastructure and integrated urban planning.
According to the chief minister, restoring KCR would ease traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and support inclusive economic growth in Karachi.
Read: Sindh Unveils Karachi Transport Master Plan with World Bank Support
ADB Country Director Emma Fan agreed in principle to support the initiative. However, she advised the provincial government to submit the required documentation so the proposal can be presented to the bank’s board for approval.
Electric Bus Expansion Across Sindh
In addition to rail development, the meeting covered plans to expand electric bus services in Karachi. Officials also discussed introducing electric buses in Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana.
The chief minister said Sindh is committed to clean and green transport solutions. He noted that electric buses would modernise public transport, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and improve air quality.
ADB representatives outlined possible financing options, including project readiness financing and co-financing arrangements. It was agreed that the Sindh government would formally submit its electric bus proposal for further review.
