Sindh Minister for Transport Sharjeel Inam Memon has announced the launch of a double-decker bus service in Karachi on the eve of the New Year, calling it a special gift for the city’s residents and a step toward improving public transport.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Memon said the service is being introduced on a trial basis and on a limited scale. Initially, the double-decker buses will operate along Sharea Faisal to Malir, one of Karachi’s busiest corridors, to assess passenger response and operational feasibility.
Addressing questions about fares, the minister confirmed that passengers will be charged the same ticket prices as those applied under the People’s Bus Service, ensuring affordability and accessibility for daily commuters.
Memon revealed that he has already discussed plans to expand the double-decker service with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. He said additional buses are expected to be added in phases, with more routes included in the future if the trial proves successful.
Highlighting the benefits of the initiative, the transport minister noted that double-decker buses are an efficient use of limited road space and can play a key role in reducing traffic congestion in a densely populated city like Karachi.
In another major announcement, Memon said commuters will now be able to use a single card to travel on both the Orange Line and Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services. He described this as a milestone, stating that Karachi has become Pakistan’s first city to operate multiple BRT lines under a unified card system, improving convenience for passengers.
Reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to public welfare, Memon said these initiatives are aimed at providing safer, more reliable, and user-friendly transport facilities to citizens.
He also acknowledged delays in the Red Line BRT project, attributing them to various technical and administrative issues. However, he said the chief minister has resolved these matters and work on the project has now been expedited.
