KARACHI: Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has halted the Rs30 billion Green Line Phase-II project due to a dispute between the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and the Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited (PIDCL).
Karachi Mayor Cites Lack of NOC
The Karachi Mayor stated that the project, which runs from Guru Mandir to Municipal Park, was stopped because PIDCL did not obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from KMC before beginning work. He emphasized that development cannot proceed without proper approvals.
Karachi Mayor vs PIDCL Disagreement
PIDCL officials contested the Karachi Mayor’s decision, claiming that a valid NOC was issued in October 2017 by KMC’s Engineering Department. They criticized the suspension, calling it harmful for Karachi’s development and accusing KMC of halting work without written notice.
Karachi Mayor Maintains Stance
Despite PIDCL’s claims, the Karachi Mayor maintained that no approval was granted for Phase-II. KMC officials confirmed the halt was carried out under Wahab’s direct instructions, stressing that municipal procedures must be followed.
Meeting Expected Between Karachi Mayor and PIDCL
The standoff is expected to lead to a meeting between the Karachi Mayor and PIDCL’s top leadership, including CEO Waseem Bajwa and GM Shafi Chhachhar. Both sides are seeking a resolution to restart the critical urban mobility project.
Work Suspended Until Further Notice
Following the Karachi Mayor’s intervention, the project’s contractor has pulled out staff and equipment. The Green Line Phase-II corridor remains at a standstill until the dispute is resolved.
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