Labourers work on the Red Line BRT project along Jail Road in Karachi on February 10, 2026. — Online
- The contractor responsible for Lot 2 failed to meet the required standards, prompting authorities to initiate formal proceedings to finalise the termination of the contract.
- District officials have also sealed the contractor’s office linked to the Lot 2 project.
Authorities have terminated the contract for the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Lot 2 covering the Mosamiyat–Numaish corridor in Karachi due to persistent delays and unsatisfactory performance by the contractor, TransKarachi said in a statement on Tuesday.
The decision came after concerns were raised by an Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation regarding the pace and quality of construction during a recent site visit, according to the statement.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation also raised concerns over health, safety, and environmental compliance on the project.
The statement added that development work on Lot 2, covering the Mosamiyat to Numaish corridor in Karachi, failed to meet the required standards. Formal proceedings are now underway to finalise the termination of the agreement.
Separately, district authorities sealed the contractor’s office linked to Lot 2, with police confirming they were instructed to secure and shut the premises.
Sources said the Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation had expressed dissatisfaction over the contractor’s performance during its visit last week, which contributed to the government’s decision to take action.
Originally launched in 2022 with a planned completion time of 30 months, the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Karachi was expected to be completed by June 2024. However, the deadline has long passed, with multiple extensions granted and no clear finishing date announced as of 2026.
The project has been divided into two major sections: Lot 1, stretching from Airport Signal to Mosamiyat, and Lot 2, from Mosamiyat to Numaish. Lot 2, being the larger segment, has faced persistent delays and recurring implementation issues.
Construction on this section was also suspended for several months last year due to financial disputes between the contractor and authorities, which eventually required court intervention before payments were released.
Meanwhile, residents of Karachi continue to face difficulties due to the stalled project, including traffic disruptions and severe congestion across major roads.
