The Pakistan Academy of Engineering (PAE) has proposed the construction of Karachi’s first underground railway network as a long-term solution to the city’s growing traffic and transportation challenges. The proposal was presented during the academy’s 40th Symposium, where engineers and transport experts discussed sustainable urban mobility.
The symposium, titled Importance of Underground Mobility in a Megacity, brought together experts from Pakistan, the United States, and China. Participants reviewed successful underground rail systems operating in major cities, including Singapore, New York, Washington DC, Delhi, Friedberg, and Dhaka.
After detailed discussions, experts unanimously recommended the development of two underground corridors as part of Karachi’s future railway network. They said the project could significantly improve public transport and reduce congestion across the city.
According to the proposal, one underground route would connect Numaish Chowrangi with Merewether Tower. The second corridor would run from FTC on Sharea Faisal to I.I. Chundrigar Road and Tower, linking major commercial and business areas.
PAE President Prof. Dr. Brig. (retd.) Nasim Akhtar Khan said Karachi’s rapidly growing population requires modern transport infrastructure. He emphasized that an underground railway network offers a sustainable and long-term solution to meet increasing travel demand.
He noted that the city’s existing transport system is under significant pressure due to population growth and rising numbers of private vehicles. Developing underground rail transit could help improve daily commuting while reducing travel times.
The academy also stated that the proposed railway system would complement Karachi’s existing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network. Together, both systems could create an integrated public transport network capable of serving a much larger number of passengers.
Transport experts at the symposium highlighted several potential benefits of the proposed project. They said underground rail could ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity between residential and commercial areas, and provide faster transportation options.
Experts also believe the project could help lower air pollution by encouraging greater use of public transport instead of private vehicles. In addition, an underground system would offer a safer and more reliable travel option for millions of daily commuters.
Participants stressed that many large cities around the world have successfully addressed traffic problems through underground rail systems. They believe Karachi can benefit from adopting similar infrastructure with proper long-term planning and investment.
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The proposal reflects growing calls for modern transport solutions as Karachi continues to expand. If implemented, the underground railway network could become one of the city’s most significant infrastructure projects, supporting sustainable urban mobility and improving the quality of life for residents.
