THIS is with reference to the report ‘Changes in route, design further delay BRT Red Line’ (May 18). The residents and commuters across the length of the University Road in Karachi have been facing innumerable issues due to the delayed construction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project. The revised deadline of June 2026 for the completion of the project is simply unacceptable. It will only exacerbate the suffering of millions of people who rely on the route for their daily commute.

There has been no construction work at the site for a long time, and even when the worksite is functional, the pace of work leaves a lot to be desired.

The entire road is marked by dug-up holes, open drains and excessive dust in the environment, posing serious health hazards, particularly respiratory problems and eye irritation.

Moreover, the mental wellbeing of the people is also affected due to the stress and anxiety caused by the daily struggle to navigate through the congested road and the many streets and lanes running parallel to it.

The government must take immediate action to expedite the construction pace, and provide alternative solutions to the people who have already suffered a lot.

Usama Ghulam Rasool
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2024