Karachi Finally Opens Major Underpass After Years of Delay

A major road project in Karachi has been partially opened to traffic after missing its deadline by more than two and a half years, raising questions over delays and incomplete execution.

The Karimabad underpass in the Central district has been made operational despite ongoing work, with several components of the project yet to be completed.

The underpass was initiated by the Karachi Development Authority (KDA) on December 30, 2022, with an estimated cost of Rs. 1.35 billion and a planned completion period of one year. However, the project faced continuous delays, pushing it far beyond its original timeline and contributing to an increase in its overall cost.

The underpass, which spans approximately 1.2 kilometers, has now been opened for traffic while finishing work remains pending. The decision to allow traffic flow before completion is being linked to mounting public pressure following prolonged disruption in the area.

Although construction is incomplete, lighting installations at the site have been completed, creating a more developed appearance, particularly during nighttime.