By our correspondent
KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to launch a large-scale operation to remove encroachments from major roads and public transport routes in Karachi, with University Road identified as a priority area for the first phase.
The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. The meeting was attended by Karachi Commissioner Hasan Naqvi, Transport Secretary Asad Zaman, Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan, DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah, DIG East Farooq Lanjar and other relevant officials.
The meeting decided that the operation on University Road would be carried out jointly by the city administration, police and the Transport Department. Officials were directed to ensure the removal of illegal structures and other obstructions affecting traffic movement, particularly along routes used by the Peoples Bus Service.
The participants also discussed the removal of encroachments from other major roads and public transport corridors. The first phase of the operation would focus on key roads, including University Road, and various routes used by the Peoples Bus Service.
The meeting further decided to take action against illegal bus terminals operating in different parts of the city. These included terminals in Sohrab Goth, which the authorities planned to relocate outside Karachi to reduce pressure on the city’s roads.
Sharjeel Inam Memon said illegal encroachments on major roads and Peoples Bus Service routes had created serious difficulties for commuters and public transport passengers.
He said roadside obstructions and unauthorised occupations not only disrupted traffic but also increased fuel consumption and affected the smooth movement of public transport. The situation had made daily travelling more difficult for residents.
The minister said clearing major roads and bus routes was necessary to provide citizens with better and more convenient transport facilities. He directed the relevant departments to work under a joint strategy and take action against those responsible for illegal encroachments.
He also called for action against unauthorised bus terminals to reduce traffic congestion and make travelling across the city easier.
The meeting also reviewed proposals to establish modern bus terminals outside Karachi under a public-private partnership arrangement. The proposed expansion of the Karachi Bus Terminal was also discussed.
Memon directed the relevant officials to accelerate work on establishing a logistics park. The initiative was discussed as part of broader efforts to improve transport and logistics facilities.
The planned operation will involve coordination among the police, city administration and Transport Department, with major roads and public transport routes targeted in the initial phase.
