Civil Society OpposesPort Elevated Corridor Project

News Desk

KARACHI: Civil society groups and local residents have vehemently rejected the proposed Qayyumabad-Karachi Port elevated corridor, citing serious concerns over noise pollution, environmental degradation, and public health risks.

The 16.5-km-long, four-lane corridor is designed to alleviate inner-city traffic by connecting Karachi Port’s East Wharf directly to Shahrah-i-Bhutto.

During a press conference held by the Karachi Citizens Forum (KCF) at the Pakistan Medical Association House, experts and representatives from non-governmental organizations voiced their apprehensions.

Architect Arif Belgaumi highlighted that the project would allow over 13,000 heavy vehicles to traverse through Clifton and Defence daily, making these areas unliveable. KCF convener Nargis Rahman emphasized the detrimental impact on residents’ privacy and health.

The Rs65 billion project, which was inaugurated by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in May, is set to be developed under a public-private partnership model.

However, the backlash from civil society raises questions about the project’s feasibility and its alignment with urban sustainability goals.

As opposition mounts, stakeholders are calling for a reassessment of the project. Upcoming discussions are expected to focus on alternative solutions that prioritize community well-being and environmental protection.