The Sindh High Court (SHC) has declared the sealing of the contractor’s office linked to the BRT Red Line Lot-2 project unlawful and ordered the provincial government to restore smooth traffic flow on University Road within two months.
According to Beyond Time News, the ruling was issued by a constitutional bench hearing petitions related to administrative actions and delays in the ongoing Karachi BRT Red Line project.
Court Orders Immediate Relief for University Road Users
The court expressed strong concern over the worsening condition of University Road, noting that the ongoing construction has created serious difficulties for daily commuters. It emphasized that development work must not block or disrupt traffic on one of Karachi’s busiest arteries.
The bench directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted movement of both public and private transport along the route while construction continues.
Two-Month Deadline for Traffic Restoration
The judges observed that the BRT Red Line project is expected to be completed by October 2027. However, they stressed that immediate action is needed to ease public hardship.
According to Beyond Time News, the court instructed the Sindh government to restore normal traffic conditions on University Road within two months. It also allowed the government to reallocate or arrange additional funds if required to speed up progress.
Legal Options for Stakeholders Preserved
The court ruled that TransKarachi may approach the Dispute Resolution Board if issues arise regarding machinery or project execution.
At the same time, the contractor has been given full legal rights to challenge any termination of the agreement through proper legal channels.
Following these directions, the petition filed by the contractor was disposed of. Copies of the judgment were sent to the Chief Secretary Sindh and the Secretary Local Government for implementation.
Court Raises Concerns Over Project Delays
Earlier hearings revealed concerns over incomplete construction on University Road, especially up to Safoora. The bench noted that side roads should be developed early to minimize disruption for the public.
The petitioner’s lawyer argued that repeated design changes and delayed approvals slowed down the project. It was also claimed that modifications in planning, including references to the K-IV line, contributed to confusion and delays.
The lawyer further stated that public perception had wrongly shifted blame onto the contractor for the delays.
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Court Remarks on Planning and Accountability
Justice Saleem Jessar observed that large infrastructure projects require complete design finalization before agreements are signed. The bench acknowledged that incomplete planning can directly affect execution timelines.
Concerns were also raised about correspondence suggesting performance issues, with claims that responsibility was being shifted between parties.
Conclusion
The SHC ruling highlights growing concerns over Karachi’s infrastructure delays and the impact on public mobility. With a strict two-month deadline now in place, the Sindh government faces pressure to restore smooth traffic flow on University Road while ensuring continued progress on the BRT Red Line project.
