Government claims reduced travel time, improved connectivity and international recognition for flagship infrastructure project

KARACHI — The Shahrah-e-Bhutto highway project is emerging as a “transformational” development for Karachi, significantly reducing travel time and improving daily commuting conditions, according to Sindh government spokesperson and Adviser on Investment and Public-Private Partnership Qasim Naveed Qamar.

Travel time cut nearly by half, says official

Qamar said the new expressway has already delivered measurable benefits for commuters, particularly on intercity routes.

He stated that a journey between Karachi and Tando Muhammad Khan, which previously took around three to three-and-a-half hours, can now be completed in approximately two hours.

He added that the project is currently benefiting an estimated 18,000 to 20,000 vehicles daily, offering savings in both fuel consumption and travel time.

Addressing Karachi’s infrastructure challenges

Describing Karachi as a major global metropolis, Qamar said the city’s growth has long been constrained by infrastructure gaps.

He said the Sindh government has been working to address these challenges through public-private partnership (PPP) initiatives, with Shahrah-e-Bhutto cited as a flagship example of this development model.

Second phase links Port Qasim corridor

The official also confirmed the launch of Phase-II of the project, which includes the Karachi Port Qasim section.

The second phase is estimated to cost around Rs64.5 billion and is designed to create a dedicated expressway for heavy transport vehicles, including dumpers and freight traffic.

Authorities say the separation of heavy and regular traffic is expected to reduce congestion and lower the risk of road accidents.

UN recognition and international visibility

Qamar said the project has been nominated for a United Nations award, adding that four PPP-based development projects from Sindh have received similar recognition.

He described the nomination as a source of pride for the provincial government and an acknowledgment of its infrastructure planning approach.

Focus on sustainable development

Reaffirming the government’s development strategy, Qamar said Sindh is planning additional large-scale projects in infrastructure, water supply, education, and healthcare.

He said all initiatives under the PPP model are designed to ensure transparency, efficiency, and timely completion.

According to him, environmental, social, and economic factors are assessed before launching any major project to ensure long-term sustainability.

Government highlights long-term urban planning vision

Officials say Shahrah-e-Bhutto represents part of a broader effort to modernise Karachi’s transport network and support economic activity through improved connectivity.

The project is being positioned by the provincial government as a key component of its long-term urban development strategy.