Murad urges PM to support Sindh govt for KCR project

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday appealed to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for federal support in establishing the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project.

“A large-scale project like the KCR cannot be completed by the Sindh government alone,” he said during a ceremony marking the upgradation of the historical Cantonment Station. The ceremony was chaired by the prime minister.

Officials said CM Shah expressed gratitude to both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, highlighting the central government’s commitment to Karachi’s development. He emphasised that upgrading railway lines and branches is a positive development for Sindh’s residents.

He pointed out that until the Karachi-Hyderabad motorway is completed, train travel remains the most viable public transport option. He called for expedited federal efforts to finish the motorway, reiterating that improved regional connectivity will greatly benefit thousands of commuters daily.

The CM underlined efforts made to modernise Karachi’s transport system, including the introduction of electric buses, the launch of the People’s Bus Service, and pink buses dedicated to women. However, he noted that a comprehensive mass transit solution like the KCR is still necessary to address the city’s growing transportation needs.

Shah once again requested federal backing for the KCR project, acknowledging that provincial resources alone were insufficient. He reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to fully cooperate with federal authorities and the railways to ensure the successful implementation of the project.

The Karachi Circular Railway is intended as a modern urban rapid transit system to ease traffic congestion and promote sustainable mobility in Pakistan’s largest metropolis. Revived after decades of dormancy, the project has seen renewed provincial government keen interest as Karachi’s population and transit demands continue to rise.

The federal government’s involvement is crucial for securing international financing and technical expertise for the KCR. The Sindh government has pledged land, logistical support, and integration with other local transport initiatives. Initial phases are expected to serve thousands daily, with future expansion planned.