In a major infrastructure move, the Sindh government has approved the Karachi Port to Qayyumabad Elevated Expressway Project, a 16.5-kilometre corridor aimed at easing Karachi’s chronic traffic congestion. The project will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to enhance port connectivity and improve urban mobility.
The decision was taken during the 48th meeting of the PPP Policy Board held at the Chief Minister’s House, chaired by CM Syed Murad Ali Shah. The chief minister directed officials to expedite project documentation, ensuring groundwork starts soon.
“This expressway will not only facilitate heavy vehicle movement but also improve traffic flow and support Karachi’s economic activity,” said CM Murad Ali Shah during the meeting.
Project Details
The expressway will connect Karachi Port (East Wharf) to Jam Sadiq Interchange, cutting the travel distance by about 26 kilometres. Once operational, it will allow 24/7 heavy vehicle movement, decongest city roads, and enhance access to M-9 Motorway and Shahrah-e-Bhutto.
The board also approved design adjustments to better align with the Yellow Line BRT, introduce mixed-traffic ramps, and minimize land acquisition issues.
Developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model, the project will run on a user-pay system, while the Sindh government will offer Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and a minimum revenue guarantee for 10 years to attract private investment.
Experts believe the expressway will play a key role in streamlining freight transport from the port and improving urban connectivity an essential step toward easing Karachi’s long-standing traffic problems