Karachi Circular Railway Revival Gains Momentum as ADB Agrees in Principle
Karachi Circular Railway revival efforts gained fresh momentum after the Asian Development Bank agreed in principle to support the project. The Sindh government approached the lender after years of delays under CPEC. As a result, officials now hope to finally restart the long-stalled rail network.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met an ADB delegation in Karachi. He described the project as a lifeline for the city. Furthermore, he stressed that modern rail connectivity would transform urban mobility for millions.
A Fresh Push After Years of Delays
The Karachi Circular Railway revival has faced repeated setbacks over the past decade. Authorities first included the project in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in 2016. Later, policymakers approved it in 2017. However, successive governments changed financing models. The PTI government proposed a public-private partnership. Later, the PDM-led government returned to seeking Chinese investment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Despite these efforts, progress stalled.
In November 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured support for revival. Yet no practical development followed. Therefore, the provincial government turned to the Asian Development Bank for help. ADB Country Director Emma Fan agreed in principle to the project. She advised the Sindh government to submit required documents for board approval.
Integrated Transport and Green Mobility
The chief minister said the railway would connect suburbs with the city centre. In addition, it would serve as a feeder to Bus Rapid Transit lines. Officials believe the project can cut congestion and reduce carbon emissions. Originally launched in the 1960s, the railway shut down in the late 1990s due to mismanagement and underinvestment. Since then, funding gaps have blocked restoration efforts.
During the meeting, both sides also agreed to expand electric bus services across Sindh. The ADB discussed financing options, including co-financing arrangements. As a result, the provincial government will submit a formal proposal soon. Officials believe clean transport solutions will improve air quality and support inclusive economic growth in Karachi.
