Another ‘proof’ of unrelenting negligence
The busiest artery of Karachi, I I Chundrigar Road has become the hub of problems on account of ongoing repair works under city’s development projects. Excavation for sewage line repair on this road has led to significant traffic disruptions especially during the peak morning and evening hours, causing citizens to bear extended travel times and substantial inconvenience. The situation is exacerbated by the lack of proper lighting on the road, increasing the risk of traffic accidents at night.
Previously burdened with challenges, I I Chundrigar Road, also called the Wall Street of Karachi, now faces the added issue of sluggish repair progress, severely disrupting the traffic system. Commuters, especially office goers, are grappling with unbearable traffic jams that have added to their miseries. What was once a relatively short two-and-a-half-kilometer journey has turned into a painful travel.
There are country’s most important establishments along the road including Karachi Stock Exchange, Central Police Office, Karachi Cotton Exchange, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, State Bank of Pakistan, head offices of banks and insurance companies and media houses.
Unfortunately, the administration’s failure to expedite sewage line repair work has negatively impacted these institutions affecting thousands of citizens. The inconvenience caused by the road’s deteriorating condition extends to its role as a crucial route to the city’s railway station. Potholes and uneven parts of the road have significantly narrowed the traffic flow, sparking anger from both passengers and railway authorities.
Riaz Abbasi, a Train Examiner at Pakistan Railways Karachi Division, emphasised the hardships faced when navigating I I Chundrigar Road without proper street lighting, particularly after enduring traffic woes throughout the day. He mentioned that just recently, DS Railway Karachi, Nasir Khalili, met an accident due to the hazardous road conditions, leading to significant financial costs for repairs of his car. Incidents of falling into potholes on the road have also been reported, calling attention of fellow citizens who on humanitarian ground and self-help basis run for their rescue.
Expressing their frustration, citizens are demanding that authorities promptly address the prolonged repair work that has disrupted economic activities. The citizens also demand installation of adequate street lighting to mitigate the risk of accidents on the road.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 1st, 2023.