Accelerated construction of Malir Expressway in Karachi
The construction of the Malir Expressway, a vital infrastructure project connecting Karachi to the Super Highway, is progressing rapidly. Currently, 400 machines are actively engaged in the construction process. Notably, 63% completion has been achieved in the first phase, covering 15 km from Jam Sadiq Bridge Qayyumabad to Quaidabad. Additionally, 40% completion has been reported in the 24 km section from Quaidabad to Kathore Super Highway.
The on-ground work for this public-private partnership project commenced one and a half years ago, with a planned completion time frame of three years. The project, estimated at Rs., involves a loan from the Sindh government, which has provided a bank guarantee.
Designed to meet motorway standards with a speed limit of 100 km, the Malir Expressway will accommodate all types of traffic. The project includes the establishment of colonies, Quaidabad Malir Nadi, New Memon Goth, and the Kathore Super Highway. It features a two-way road, a three-lane road, and a fourth lane shoulder.
The installation of girders for interchanges in the first phase has commenced, with ongoing work on the Colony Malir River bridge interchange. Scheduled from 12 pm to 7 am daily until October 24, traffic diversions will be implemented during this phase.
The project director, Niaz Soomro, former special secretary to the Sindh government, highlighted the comprehensive hydraulic study conducted for the project. Given the Malir River’s historical flow, the design accommodates water levels up to two and a half lakh cusecs. Former Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah played a pivotal role in advancing the project.
The Malir Expressway is poised to serve as an alternative to Shahrah Faisal, providing significant time-saving benefits. Under the agreement, the private company will maintain the expressway for 25 years, sharing a portion of profits with the government. After 25 years, the expressway will undergo re-carpeting and be handed over to the government.