Open craters, sewage-filled potholes, stalled construction leave commuters counting the cost in accidents, hours lost
A rickshaw falls into a sewage-filled crater on University Road, prompting bystanders to rush in and pull it to safety. Photo: Express
KARACHI:
What should have been a flagship transit corridor has instead become a commuter’s nightmare. University Road — dug up for the long-delayed Red Line project — has turned into what residents call a “well of death”, with gaping potholes and stagnant sewage water causing daily accidents and endless misery, especially in the holy month of Ramazan.
The condition of University Road has gone from bad to worse as Red Line construction drags on for over four-and-a-half years, with no clear completion date in sight. From Malir Halt to Numaish Chowrangi, the artery lies scarred by deep craters and broken stretches that have made routine travel a test of endurance.
In several sections, particularly between Hasan Square and Jail Chowrangi, sewage water has accumulated over large, open pits — invisible traps for unsuspecting motorists. Motorcyclists, rickshaws and even cars have been falling into these ditches with alarming regularity.
During a ground visit by The Express Tribune, two rickshaws plunged into the same water-filled crater within minutes — one carrying women passengers — prompting bystanders to rush for rescue. A motorcyclist was also injured after losing control and falling into a ditch. Locals later placed wooden barricades at the spot in a desperate attempt to prevent further accidents.
Residents say the hazardous conditions have persisted for days, with no visible remedial action from the authorities. “The water hides the depth of the potholes. By the time you realise it, it is too late,” a commuter said, adding that accidents have become routine.
The prolonged construction has not only crippled traffic flow — turning minutes-long journeys into hour-long ordeals — but has also exposed citizens to daily danger. Citizens say that even during Ramazan, they are forced to travel through dirty water and dangerous potholes, but the administration remains unmoved.
Citizens have urged the government to immediately repair what once used to be a broad and beautiful road and ensure proper safety measures until the project is completed.
For now, however, University Road remains a cautionary tale of a project gone off the rails — where every commute feels like a roll of the dice.
