Sindh governor becomes one of the first passengers on Karachi’s Green Line bus

Karachi: The Governor of Sindh Imran Ismail rode a bus like any general commuter in the city as he become one of the first passengers on the Green Line bus rapid transit service (BRTS), which started its limited commercial operation as the first-ever modern mass transit system in Karachi.

The federally-owned Sindh Infrastructure Development Company Limited (SIDCL) launched the partial commercial operation as per the earlier announcement by Federal Planning and Development Minister, Asad Umar. Prime Minister Imran Khan on December 10, 2021 inaugurated the Green Line service.

The Governor rode the Green Line bus from Numaish to Hyderi passenger station. He purchased the bus ticket and inspected various special features and facilities of the service. He also interacted with the passengers at the commuter stations and on board the bus. Commuters took selfies with the Governor.

The Governor on the occasion hoped work will soon be completed on different sections of the BRTS to make the modern mass transit system fully functional in the city.

The SIDCL plans to launch the full-fledged commercial operation of the Green Line service from January 10, 2022. Currently, 25 out of a total of 80 buses imported from China are running. The limited bus operation is available at 11 out of total 21 passenger stations from 8am to noon. The bus service is now available from Abdullah Chowk station in Surjani Town to Numaish station.

The large air-conditioned buses imported from China have WiFi facilities and the port for charging the cellular phones. The buses have special ramps and spaces to accommodate the differently-abled passengers. Each bus has five surveillance cameras as a central control room has been established to monitor the bus service.

The bus fare ranging from Rs15 to Rs55 can be paid either in cash or through a special plastic rechargeable card being issued for the purpose.