PPP Board approves launch of projects
The Yellow Line will have 24 stations and 24 overhead bridges. PHOTO: FILE
The 40th meeting of the Public-Private Policy (PPP) Board, chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, concluded with decisions to initiate several crucial projects under the PPP-mode.
The projects include the deployment and operation of buses for the Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), the establishment of an Oil Palm Nursery and Tissue Culture Laboratory, the financial closure of the ongoing Ghotki-Kandhkot Bridge, the construction of Tando Allahyar Bypass and drainage system in Tando Jam, and the development of Rani Bagh in Hyderabad.
Yellow Line BRTS
While discussing Yellow Line BRTS project, Minister of Transport Sharjeel Memon informed the chief minister that a comprehensive solution to Karachi's urban mobility issue was being implemented through the Bus Rapid Transit System, as outlined in the Karachi Urban Transport Master Plan (KUTMP) 2030. The transport department devised a project under KUTMP, which involves the supply and operation of buses for the Yellow Line BRTS under a PPP contract with a 10-year concession period.
According to Sharjeel, private operators will finance, procure, supply, operate, and maintain various systems such as bus fleets, intelligent transport systems, fare collection, and depot equipment, among others.
The World Bank has committed to cover 50 per cent of the project cost for the development and operation of the BRT Yellow Line Corridor, while the remaining amount will be arranged by the private partner.
Oil palm project
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ismail Rahu highlighted Pakistan's annual import of 4.5 million tons of edible oil, worth $5 billion, making it the second-highest import expense after petroleum products.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 9th, 2023.