Minister for Railways Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour on Friday urged Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) and concerned ministry to expedite work on Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project. In a meeting with a six-member JICA delegation of technical experts, headed by Ken Kato, the Railways Minister said delay in project has raised serious concerns among the public who are facing acute transport problems.
The Japanese delegation expressed satisfaction on performance of the Karachi Urban Transport Corporation that has completed most of work assigned to it regarding the circular railway project. The delegation informed the Minister that a team of technical experts would reach Pakistan in June this year to survey design of the project that would also comprise its geo-technical investigation. Kato apprised the Minister that following the appraisal mission project, Japan would hold detailed discussion on the provision of loan facility and ascertain the time period for the purpose.
The railways Minister assured Japanese delegation of all possible co-operation for the execution of the multi-billion project. He also eulogised the devotion of Japanese team that arrived in Pakistan from Tokyo amidst the situation when their country was badly hit by earthquake followed by Tsunami.