Metropolitan city of Pakistan, Karachi, has many burning issues. One big problem is the inefficient transportation system, which is not sufficient for the growing population of the city. However, it turns out that government has some other excellent plans for the people of Karachi and city’s transportation system. Little time has passed since the government pursued World Bank to agree to give funds and technical assistance for the development of the Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit in Karachi and also the formation of an integrated BRT system. Similarly, this time also the provincial government has announced that it will launch a new people’s bus service in the city.
Also Read: World Bank Agrees to Fund Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit for Karachi
According to the minister for transportation Nasir Hussain, the new transport project will be based on public-private partnership. Nasir further added that Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah and Mayor of Karachi Waseem Akhtar have also been informed about this project.
Under the project the number of buses which will operate totals around 617. However, at first stage, only a few buses will be introduced on roads by the end of November. But gradually and steady all the buses will be launched. The buses will travel on many routes, which the will be decided by stakeholders with consensus.
The fare is expected to be kept in between Rs.10 to Rs.30. A committee has been formed to discuss the amount of fare. It comprises of members of Sindh Government and the Karachi Transport Union.
The Minister for Transportation Nasir Hussain asserted that for this project Rs. 2 billion has been allotted, which will be given in the form of a subsidiary in the span of next five years. Moreover, a soft loan will be provided by Sindh Modaraba Limited, which will cover 70 percent expenses of the buses. Other 30 percent expenses of the buses will be shared and covered by Sindh Government and local transporters.
The transporters will pay the loan in five years. They will also pay for the 5 percent rental chargers. It would be worth mentioning here that if the transporters offer better service and pay the loan at the assigned time, they will get a waiver of 15 percent. On the other hand, the provincial government will pay for 30 percent credit risk guarantee and around 5 percent for the insurance of the buses.
It is pertinent to mention that tenders for the project will only be accepted who apply for it first—meaning first come first serve basis.
Furthermore, drivers and conductors of the buses will have to wear a uniform, and no compensation on this matter will be given to anyone. Tickets will be issued to every passenger.
The step to enhance the transportation system of Karachi and to cater the need of general public this recent action by the government is excellent.
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