"Elevated Expressway Sparks Outcry: DHA, Clifton Residents Reject Qayyumabad Project"
Rabab Ibrahim
Residents of Karachi’s Defence and Clifton neighborhoods strongly opposed the Qayyumabad Elevated Expressway during a public hearing, citing privacy, environmental, and social concerns. They argued that construction pillars in front of homes would compromise privacy and disrupt the area’s peaceful environment.
Concerns were raised that heavy vehicles, currently restricted to nighttime, would begin operating during the day, increasing noise and diesel pollution. Despite assurances from officials that no environmental damage would occur, participants remained unconvinced and voted against the project.
Urban Resource Centre suggested diverting port traffic through the Northern Bypass to keep heavy vehicles away from residential areas.
Residents demanded that the hearing be reconvened within affected neighborhoods to ensure meaningful participation.
