ADB discusses $1 billion support for Karachi Circular Railway, Sindh transport projects

The Asian Development Bank has assured financing support of up to $1 billion for the Sindh Sustainable Mobility Project, including an initial $10 million for preparatory work covering design review, operational planning, institutional arrangements and financing models.

A high-level ADB delegation met Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to discuss financing support for major urban transport projects and the proposed Sindh Sustainable Mobility Project across the province.

According to officials, the discussions focused on developing integrated and sustainable transport systems in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur and Larkana to improve public transport, ease traffic congestion and promote environment-friendly mobility solutions.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the revival of the Karachi Circular Railway project. Officials said the Sindh government would share previous feasibility studies and technical documents related to the project with the ADB for further assessment.

Asif Hyder Shah said the Sindh government was committed to building a modern, efficient and sustainable public transport network across the province.

He said the Karachi Circular Railway remained a priority project that could improve urban mobility, reduce congestion, provide affordable mass transit facilities and support economic activity in Karachi.

The chief secretary directed relevant departments to ensure timely submission of PC-II documents, maintain coordination with the ADB and complete preparatory work within the prescribed timelines.

The ADB delegation was led by Deputy Country Director Hussain Haider and included Transport Specialist Wonbae Seo, Project Officer Infrastructure Hamid Khan, consultants and other officials.

Senior Sindh government officials, including representatives from the Planning and Development Board and Transport Department, also attended the meeting.