Sindh, ADB Agree to Advance KCR Revival and Expand Electric Bus Service

PAKISTAN

A meeting between Syed Murad Ali Shah and a high-level delegation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), led by Country Director Emma Fan, reached a consensus on reviving the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) and expanding electric bus services across Sindh.

During the meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House, both sides agreed to enhance development cooperation and accelerate work on priority transport projects. Opening discussions on Karachi’s transport challenges, the Chief Minister described KCR as the provincial government’s flagship priority, stating that the megacity urgently requires a functional circular railway system to serve as a feeder to various Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines and ease commuting difficulties.

He emphasized that the government seeks financial and technical support for the project. Noting ADB’s ongoing assistance for the BRT Red Line, he said the time is appropriate for the Bank to also support KCR’s revival. “KCR is not just a transport project but the lifeline of Karachi,” he remarked, adding that its restoration would reduce traffic congestion, cut carbon emissions, and promote inclusive economic growth.

ADB’s Country Director expressed in-principle support for KCR and advised the provincial government to submit required documentation for board consideration.

The meeting also reviewed ADB’s proposed $3 billion development pipeline for 2026–2029, covering transport, urban development, health, education, water, sanitation, rural development, and climate resilience. Expansion of electric bus services in Karachi and their introduction in Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana were also discussed, with both sides agreeing to move forward on the proposal. – ER News Desk

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