Karachi has approved a Rs 4.2 billion plan to rehabilitate Rashid Minhas, S.M. Taufique, Sir Shah Suleman and Pehalwan Goth roads with better layouts and green belts.
Rs 4.2 Billion Road Rehabilitation Plan Cleared by KMC
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has approved a Rs 4.2 billion project to rehabilitate and beautify four major traffic corridors in the city. The decision was taken in a meeting at the KMC head office, chaired by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab. Officials say the plan is aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving road safety and giving a cleaner look to some of the busiest stretches in the metropolis.
The selected corridors include Rashid Minhas Road, S.M. Taufique Road, Sir Shah Suleman Road and Pehalwan Goth Road. All four serve as important links between residential neighbourhoods, commercial centres and major highways, carrying thousands of vehicles every day. Years of heavy use, poor drainage and unplanned digging have left many sections damaged, which is why KMC has decided to launch a full-scale rehabilitation drive.
Breakdown of Allocations for Each Road
Under the approved allocation, KMC will spend Rs 1.12 billion on Rashid Minhas Road, Rs 429 million on S.M. Taufique Road, Rs 574 million on Sir Shah Suleman Road and Rs 1.9 billion on Pehalwan Goth Road. These amounts cover not only resurfacing and repair, but also drainage improvements, lane marking, traffic engineering and landscaping.
Officials explain that Pehalwan Goth Road has received the largest share because of the scale of work required and its role as a growing traffic corridor connecting several densely populated localities. Rashid Minhas Road, already one of the city’s most important arteries, is also set for major rehabilitation to handle heavy traffic more safely and smoothly.
Scope of Work: From Road Surface to Sewerage and Drainage
According to KMC, the project goes beyond simple patchwork or cosmetic improvements. The plan includes full rehabilitation of the selected roads, which means damaged portions will be rebuilt with proper base layers instead of just filling potholes. Sewerage and drainage issues along these corridors will also be addressed so that rainwater does not accumulate on the carriageway during monsoon seasons.
Engineers will review existing manholes, drains and side channels to ensure that water can flow off the road quickly. By fixing drainage together with resurfacing, the city hopes to extend the life of the roads and reduce the frequent need for emergency repairs after heavy rains.
Improved Lane Markings, Traffic Layouts and Green Belts
Another important part of the scheme is the improvement of lane markings and traffic layouts. Fresh lane marking, zebra crossings and properly designed U-turns are planned to make driving safer and more organised. Better signage and clearer divisions between fast and slow lanes can help reduce sudden lane changes and accidents, especially during peak hours.
The plan also includes the development of green belts along these corridors, where space allows. Planting trees, shrubs and grass not only improves the visual appeal of the city but can also help reduce dust and heat. Well-maintained green strips between or alongside carriageways can create a more pleasant environment for motorists and nearby residents.
Mayor Directs Immediate Tendering for Timely Execution
During the meeting, Mayor Murtaza Wahab directed KMC officials to float tenders immediately so that work can begin without unnecessary delays. He stressed that all legal and technical formalities should be completed on fast track, with full transparency in contractor selection and project supervision. The mayor said that citizens of Karachi have waited too long for durable solutions to broken roads and traffic bottlenecks.
By pushing for quick tendering, the city administration aims to start visible work in the coming months. Officials are expected to set clear timelines for each corridor so that residents and commuters can see progress and hold authorities accountable for delays.
What Commuters Can Expect Once Work Starts
For daily commuters, the rehabilitation of these four roads may initially mean diversions, partial closures and slower traffic while construction is under way. However, once the work is completed, motorists can expect smoother travel, fewer potholes and clearer lane guidance along the upgraded corridors. Improved drainage should also reduce waterlogging, which often damages vehicles and makes driving hazardous during the rainy season.
If the project is executed as planned, the combination of stronger road surfaces, better traffic layouts and greener surroundings could significantly improve the driving experience on some of Karachi’s most important routes. Residents are hopeful that this initiative will be followed by similar upgrades on other neglected roads across the city.
