Karachi Green Line facilities face neglect

Several escalators installed at stations of Karachi’s Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system have stopped working, while some functional escalators are also reportedly not being operated, creating difficulties for passengers, particularly elderly people, women and children.

The Green Line is considered one of Pakistan’s major and revenue-generating BRT projects. The federal government-initiated project is currently being operated by the Sindh government. Its operational route runs from Abdullah Mor in Surjani Town to Numaish, while construction work on the second phase from Numaish to Municipal Park and Jama Cloth Market is under way.

The Green Line route is largely elevated from Gurumandir through Nazimabad and North Karachi to Nagan Chowrangi and Abdullah Mor in Surjani Town. Most stations along this section have also been constructed above ground level.

Escalators, lifts and conventional staircases were installed to provide passengers with convenient access to the elevated stations. Similar facilities are also available at ground-level stations to help commuters cross roads safely.

However, passengers say the facilities have deteriorated at several stations. At many locations, escalators are either non-functional or remain switched off, while lift services are also unavailable at some stations.

The condition of some escalators has further deteriorated, with damaged railings and other equipment visible at different stations. Despite the problems, passengers claim that the relevant authorities have not taken adequate steps to repair or replace the damaged equipment.

A security guard deployed at Nazimabad No. 1 station said his duty was limited to the upper portion of the station. He claimed that equipment from the escalator leading down towards the road was frequently stolen, adding to the deterioration of the facility.

The lack of functioning escalators and lifts has made movement between the stations and surrounding roads more difficult. Elderly passengers and families travelling with young children are particularly affected when they have to rely on conventional staircases.

The Green Line remains an important public transport facility for Karachi residents and serves a large number of commuters. Citizens have urged both the federal and Sindh governments to ensure proper maintenance of the project and restore the escalators and lifts.