Lyari Freight Corridor Cost Jumps to Rs. 274 Billion

The proposed Lyari Elevated Freight Corridor has sparked serious debate after its estimated cost surged to Rs. 274 billion from earlier projections of around Rs. 100 billion. The issue was discussed by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, where lawmakers raised concerns over feasibility, funding mechanisms, and repeated cost escalations. Officials from Karachi Port Trust stated that despite a cargo handling capacity of 125 million tonnes, the port handles only 56 million tonnes due to poor connectivity with highways and motorways. The corridor, spanning 16 kilometres and linked with 56 kilometres of upgraded highways under the National Highway Authority, was termed economically unviable in feasibility studies. However, lawmakers described the project as vital for easing congestion, improving logistics efficiency, and supporting national economic activity.