A case study of public transportation reforms in Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Optimization of existing transport infrastructure can contribute significantly to relieve transportation problems and reduce cost, especially in developing cities. Modal share for public transport service in Karachi has been declining continuously for the last few decades. Absence of standard public transport service has also sharply stimulated demand for use of private vehicles. This paper overviews various features of public transport service in Karachi such as availability of service, problems in route planning, operation of bus service, increased vehicle growth, comfort and convenience, public transport service as a business, its impact on community and other miscellaneous problems. The existing road infrastructure of Karachi city is then compared with Seoul city in terms of trips carried by roads. This paper analyzes the exiting transportation problems and presents framework for transportation reforms in Karachi city. This research expects that transportation reforms will improve the quality of service as well as increase modal share for public transport service.