Sindh govt names the newly-constructed high-speed corridor after PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
Karachi: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari inaugurated the first section of the highly anticipated Malir Expressway on Saturday, the largest public-private partnership (PPP) project in Sindh.
The Sindh government named the newly-constructed high-speed corridor after PPP founder “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto”.
Bilawal Bhutto drove his vehicle himself with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on the state-of-the-art corridor, featuring a three-lane dual carriageway with modern and access-controlled infrastructure, and also paid a toll tax of Rs100.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Qayyumabad Interchange of the expressway.
PPP’s Role in Karachi’s Development
Speaking at the event, Bilawal Bhutto said that three generations of the Bhutto family have played a role in the development of Karachi. He highlighted his grandfather’s revolutionary steps to improve the city’s infrastructure and employment opportunities.
He also mentioned that his mother, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, paid special attention to Karachi’s development and peace whenever the PPP came into power.
Bilawal noted that former Karachi mayor Mustafa Kamal could testify that his father, Asif Ali Zardari, provided more resources to the city than any other personality in the country.
Water Scarcity in Karachi
Bilawal acknowledged that water scarcity is a major issue in Karachi and urged the provincial government to address the water-related concerns in the metropolis. He emphasized that his party would not pursue politics of extremism or revenge.
He also suggested that green energy parks should be established under the public-private partnership and invited all segments and stakeholders to join efforts to develop the country’s financial hub.
Malir Expressway Features
The 40 km-long Malir Expressway connects Korangi Creek Avenue (DHA) to the M-9 Motorway (Superhighway) near Kathore, offering a critical link for commuters and significantly reducing travel time.
The expressway includes dedicated interchanges, providing seamless access to key residential and commercial areas along the route. The first section features a ramp to facilitate immediate traffic flow and will be complemented by a connecting flyover from Korangi, which is expected to be completed within two months.
Toll Plaza and Security Measures
A toll plaza will manage traffic flow, charging Rs100 for cars and jeeps, and Rs200 for heavy vehicles. Security measures will include patrols by traffic police, fire brigades, and Rescue 1122 ambulances.