As I have a keen interest in architecture and urban designing, I have been a keen observer of Karachi mass transit schemes over the years. Several schemes were launched and discarded at the establishment’s whims over decades because of an inconsistent policy framework. In fact Karachi holds a dubious record among the cities of this size of having no mass transit.
We have seen the KCR, Tramways, SRTC and KTC die a quiet death with nothing to replace them. Naturally traffic problems in the metropolis have multiplied and become unmanageable.
The response to the traffic problems from the government are a knee-jerk reaction. With various metro routes planned, the government is touting the scheme as the panacea for Karachi’s traffic problems.
This is a classic example of putting the cart before the horse.
Instead of a revival and expansion of KCR, which could serve a vast number of Karachiites, they are laying metro lines a la Punjab.
The Japan Development Agency (JICA) has expressed its full support to a KCR revival at attractive terms and conditions. But it seems the bureaucracy is bent upon ensuring that the KCR stays moribund.
The shenanigans go on while there is no Karachi Mass Transit Authority, the bill for which has already been approved in the Sindh Assembly. It seems a chosen few will benefit at the public’s expense.
One example: There was an advertisement from Sindh Transport and Mass Transit Department to fill various posts.
A cursory glance confirms that the posts have already been filled and this is only an exercise in public relations to satisfy the rules and regulations.
Is it normal to have the age limit for a director general at 42-62 years, while the age limit of one director is 40-55 years? All other directors have a uniform age limit of between 28-40 years. Where is merit and transparency?
One had hoped that, with the induction of a popular and energetic chief minister, and new transportation minister, the bureaucracy would mend its ways.
Syed Arshian Ahmed
Karachi
