The Pakistan Academy of Engineering (PAE) has proposed the construction of Karachi’s first underground railway network, describing it as a long-term solution to the city’s growing transportation and traffic challenges.
The proposal was presented during the academy’s 40th Symposium, titled Importance of Underground Mobility in a Megacity, where transport and engineering experts from Pakistan, the United States, and China examined successful underground rail systems operating in cities such as Singapore, New York, Washington DC, Delhi, Friedberg, and Dhaka.
Following detailed discussions, participants unanimously recommended the development of two underground railway corridors in Karachi. The proposed routes include one connecting Numaish Chowrangi with Merewether Tower and another linking FTC on Sharea Faisal to I.I. Chundrigar Road and Tower.
PAE President Prof. Dr. Brig. (retd.) Nasim Akhtar Khan said Karachi’s rapidly growing population and increasing transport demand require long-term infrastructure planning. He noted that an underground railway system would provide a sustainable and efficient solution to the city’s future mobility needs.
According to the academy, the proposed underground rail network would complement Karachi’s existing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, creating an integrated public transportation network capable of serving significantly more passengers.
Experts participating in the symposium said the project could ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity between commercial and residential areas, reduce environmental pollution, and provide millions of commuters with a safer, faster, and more reliable mode of transportation.
While the proposal has received strong support from engineering and transport experts, the project remains at the recommendation stage and will require government approval, detailed feasibility studies, and funding before construction can begin.
