FOR over two decades, the authorities have made repeated promises of improvement in Karachi’s railway commuter service, but nothing meaningful has taken place. Millions have been wasted in meetings and paperwork, but the ground reality has remained unchanged.

Karachi, a massive city, is currently relying on a single, often delayed, local train, which is a completely inadequate solution for daily commuters. What the city truly needs is a modern, metro-style rail system with multiple trains running every few minutes. Importantly, there is no need for major new investment. The 50km track already exists. All that is required is to add more trains and make better use of the current infrastructure. It is high time the authorities moved beyond paying lip service, and delivered practical, fast and affordable transport solutions for the people of Karachi.

Zakir Hussain
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 28th, 2025