urban voids: flyovers and underpasses in karachi

Urban voids: Flyovers and underpasses in Karachi

Discussion and Proposals

Aseela Shamim Haque - 2018 - 2019

Study conducted under URC internship Program

Urban Resource Centre

A Student of

Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Germany.

Table of Contents

Introduction __________________________________________________________________ 5

Objectives ____________________________________________________________________ 5

Methodology _________________________________________________________________ 6

Acknowledgements ____________________________________________________________ 6

Link to Flyovers and Underpasses on Google Maps ___________________________________ 7

Korangi Crossing Flyover ________________________________________________________ 8

Gizri Flyover _________________________________________________________________ 15

Gizri Boulevard Flyover ________________________________________________________ 33

Submarine Chowk Underpasses _________________________________________________ 36

Clifton Flyover/Bahria Flyover ___________________________________________________ 40

Bahria Underpass _____________________________________________________________ 47

Khayaban-e-Iqbal Underpass ___________________________________________________ 55

PIDC Flyover and Khyaban-e-Iqbal Flyover (Clifton Bridge) ____________________________ 62

FTC Flyover __________________________________________________________________ 75

Nursery Flyover ______________________________________________________________ 80

Fauzia Wahab Flyover _________________________________________________________ 87

Baloch Colony Flyover _________________________________________________________ 91

Karsaz Flyover ______________________________________________________________ 101

PAF Faisal Base Flyover _______________________________________________________ 109

Drig Road Flyover and Shah rae Faisal Underpass __________________________________ 113

Shah Faisal Colony Flyover ____________________________________________________ 118

Flyover near Jinnah International Airport ________________________________________ 140

Malir Halt Flyover ___________________________________________________________ 146

Malir 15 Flyover _____________________________________________________________ 150

Quaidabad Flyover ___________________________________________________________ 163

Manzil Pump Flyover _________________________________________________________ 172

YB Chowrangi Flyover ________________________________________________________ 179

Landhi Flyover ______________________________________________________________ 186

Jinnah Medical University Flyover _______________________________________________ 197

Hotel Mehran Underpass ______________________________________________________ 202

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PIDC bridge _________________________________________________________________ 205

MT Khan Road flyover ________________________________________________________ 210

Jinnah Flyover and Bridge _____________________________________________________ 215

Mauripur Road Lyari Expressway _______________________________________________ 226

Gulbai Flyover _______________________________________________________________ 230

Sher Shah Flyover ____________________________________________________________ 235

Afzi Altaf Flyover ____________________________________________________________ 247

Habib Bank Bridge ___________________________________________________________ 254

Bacha Khan Flyover __________________________________________________________ 258

Nazimabad Board Interchange _________________________________________________ 272

Jail Chowrangi Flyover ________________________________________________________ 278

Hassan Flyover ______________________________________________________________ 292

National Stadium flyover/ Qasim Omer flyover ____________________________________ 306

Green line bus Gurumander area _______________________________________________ 310

Teen Hatti Flyover ___________________________________________________________ 312

Lyari Expressway over SM Taufiq Road __________________________________________ 321

Teen Hatti Bridge ____________________________________________________________ 324

Daak Khana Intersection flyover at S M Taufiq Road _______________________________ 328

Liaquatabad flyover __________________________________________________________ 335

Liaquatabad Underpass _______________________________________________________ 341

Gharibabad Underpass _______________________________________________________ 345

Nazimabad Underpass ________________________________________________________ 347

Nazimabad Flyover __________________________________________________________ 349

Shaheed e Millat Expressway #1 near city school PAF _______________________________ 359

Shaheed e Millat Expressway #2 Tipu Sultan Flyover near school Cordoba ______________ 366

Askari flyover _______________________________________________________________ 370

Johar Mor Bridge ____________________________________________________________ 374

Bridge on Johar Mor Road _____________________________________________________ 380

University Road Flyover/Samama flyover ________________________________________ 382

Abul Isphahani Flyover _______________________________________________________ 387

U Turn Flyover ______________________________________________________________ 390

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Rashid Minhas Flyover ________________________________________________________ 393

Gulshan-e-Iqbal flyover _______________________________________________________ 406

Allama Shabbir Ahmed Usmani flyover __________________________________________ 410

Lyari Expressway near Imitaz Store _____________________________________________ 416

Sohrab Goth Flyover __________________________________________________________ 420

Sohrab Goth Underpass _______________________________________________________ 424

Water Pump Flyover _________________________________________________________ 427

Ayesha Manzil Flyover ________________________________________________________ 436

Nagan Chowrangi Flyover _____________________________________________________ 445

North Karachi Interchange ____________________________________________________ 458

KPT Flyover _________________________________________________________________ 465

4

Introduction

This project was undertaken in June, 2018 as part of my internship at the

Urban Resource Center in Karachi. Data collection for this project took three and a

half months. The internship constitutes a part of Masters programme, Global Studies

(M.A.), at Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany. It was an independent project

assigned to me by Mr. Younus. I was provided with a camera and a tentative list of

flyovers and underpasses in Karachi. Through the course of my work, I have made

many additions to that list. To the best of my knowledge, there is only one site

missing in this work: Golimar Way. Unfortunately, I could not cover this site due to

safety concerns but I have included it in the mapping. I apologize if there are

omissions and mistakes in the report and the mapping. The forthcoming discussion

of my methodology will elucidate the limitations I faced in my research.

Overall, I found the project quite challenging and exciting. I hope to revisit

this work to write more on the geographies of urban voids in Karachi. I am very

grateful to the Urban Resource Center for the opportunity and support.

Objectives

Karachi, as one of Pakistan’s largest cities, is a major site of infrastructure

development projects. It is a port-city and an epicenter of Pakistan’s trade and global

economic activities. According to a population census in 2017 by the Pakistan

Bureau of Statistics, Karachi has a population of 15 million people. It is also a city

of migrants with a diverse ethnic landscape. Due to several waves of migration to

the city, Karachi’s borders are continually taking new shapes, so much so that

drawing a map of the city is an arduous task. This is not only because many of the

city’s settlements are unplanned and unsanctioned by the government, but also

because there has been a sharp rise in infrastructure development in the city in the

form of flyovers and underpasses. This report is an attempt to render a sense of order

to the shifting landscape of Karachi and provide a foundational text for mapping and

further research. It aims to document flyovers and underpasses in the city.

Furthermore, it will engage with the negative spaces that have been created in

Karachi because of flyovers and underpasses and present proposals for better

utilization of these spaces.

5

Methodology

The mapping of the flyovers and underpasses was done on google maps. A link

to the map has been shared with Mr. Younus through email and is also included in

this report. I used the tentative list provided by the URC to get started. During the

fieldwork, I stumbled upon many flyovers and underpasses that were absent on the

list and in Google maps. My methods of finding the sites included researching on

the internet, reading online forums, exploring google maps, driving around the city,

asking people on the streets, and talking to friends and family. Due to a lack of

information regarding flyovers and underpasses in Karachi, I could not refer to

formal documents to begin my work. Therefore, I cannot say with certainty that I

have successfully mapped every flyover and underpass in the city. I would

encourage the readers of this document to consider it a preliminary mapping and an

ongoing process, instead of a finished work.

The process of collecting information at the flyover included walking the

length of the under-flyover space and its surroundings. I talked to street hawkers,

traffic policemen, shop keepers and other people in the area to have a better

understanding of the space. Moreover, I visited all the sites during day time.

Therefore, I cannot say how the spaces evolve during the day and at night. On

average I spent twenty minutes at each flyover. For some of the larger ones, I walked

and observed for over an hour. This document is a product of ethnographic research

and interviews with individuals on site. The data for this report was recorded

primarily through pictures and notes. This report is supplemented with mapping of

the flyovers and underpasses on Google maps.

Acknowledgements

I am deeply indebted to Mr. Behram Khan for all his help and support during

my fieldwork. He accompanied me on every trip and was very patient with my

navigation skills. His company allowed me to traverse parts of the city where women

are not often seen in public. Under his watchful presence, I felt safe to do my work.

6

Link to Flyovers and Underpasses on Google Maps

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_i5qiPn6Fj_nR6Qrnt56Wd3so9QBeUkQ&usp=sharing

7

Korangi Crossing Flyover

8

Observations:

The area surrounding the flyover is a major hub of activities. In an empty plot

adjacent to the underflyover space, there are many parked transport vehicles such as

vans, lorries, taxis and rickshaws. It also seems to be a rubbish dump. It is strewn

with heaps of trash and some of it is being burnt. Some of the vehicles are parked on

the road, making the road narrower. There is a lot of pedestrian traffic since it is a

bus stop and many people are trying to catch the bus or hail a rickshaw. There are

many fruit vendors on both sides of the street and under the flyover as well. Under

the flyover, men are sitting, loitering and talking to each other near a sugarcane juice

vendor. There is a lot of hustle and bustle. There is a stall set up by a political party

for a pre-election campaign. The flyover is plastered with political posters and

advertisements. The entire length of the flyover is strewn with trash. There are no

traffic policemen around. In general, the atmosphere is very chaotic.

Proposals:

The deployment of traffic police in the area could allow for a better flow of traffic.

Moreover, creating pedestrian crossings could allow for a safer environment for the

pedestrians and make access to the bus stop easier. The entire space can be cleaned

up and vendors can be relocated to neighboring empty spaces since the space under

the flyover is limited. A few of the small areas around the pillars of the flyovers can

serve as pedestrian crossing points when people are crossing the street to get to the

bus station. Moreover, the advertisements and posters can be removed to make room

for more aesthetic art work. There is no dearth of artists and art students in Karachi

who have contributed to beautifying many urban voids in Karachi. A similar project

can be initiated here.

14

Gizri Flyover

15

Observations:

The space under the flyover is very crowded. Men are lounging and there many cars,

generators, motorcycles, vendors and cement blocks. The shops on either side of the

flyover seem to storing their merchandise under the flyover. Parts of the space are

very overcrowded, to the degree that vendors seem to be spilling out of them. There

are also parts of the space that have enough room but vendors do not want to move

there because they have more customers in their present location. There is no space

for a pedestrian to walk and there are no crossings to accommodate pedestrians.

Police is absent. There is no management of traffic.

When a vendor is asked what sort of problems he faces, he cites issues with

neighboring shops. Since shops are keeping their merchandise under the flyover,

several vendors feel they are being pushed out. He claims that no entity bothers them

except the shop owners. The shop owners present a different view. One of the owners

claimed that his blocks of concrete under the flyover do not disrupt traffic, whereas

the vendors do and therefore his work is less of a “nuisance” to public space than the

vendors. He stresses that the vendors pay “bhatta” (bribe) to certain political forces

to occupy space whereas he does not indulge in illegal practices. Although, both the

vendors and the shop keepers are occupying the space under the flyovers illegally, it

seems the space serves a functionality that is essential for the market area and the

commercial actors present there.

Moreover, the variety of things being sold in this space is remarkable. There are

vendors selling tiles, sunglasses, metal plates, tea, kaleji, chaat, sugarcane juice, rice,

grains, paint and fruit. There are also “dhabas” (roadside restaurants) with chairs

and tables. The entire length of the flyover serves multiple purposes. It is used for

storage, parking and various market activities such as buying and selling of goods.

It is also a place of leisure where men enjoy a cup of tea, a break in their day or have

lunch. It is important to note that this is a space that is mostly occupied by men.

Proposals:

The management of traffic and vendors could be augmented by the traffic police.

Many of the vendors expressed that they would like the city government to make

shops underneath the flyover and allow them to rent those shops. In order to make

this a viable option, the city government can make permanent stalls which are

inexpensive to make, and rent out the stalls to the vendors at cheap prices. Moreover,

31

storage spaces can be leased to shop owners. Dhabas can operate with leases as well.

This would lead to the public space serving the needs of the community well. Public

toilets should be installed to facilitate the people and discourage public urination.

The most important thing is for a clear demarcation of storage sections, parking

sections and market places, and allocation of space to create a more organised

environment. The political posters and advertisements should be removed in favour

of artwork. There are many vendors selling paint in the area who could be contracted

to make the space brighter and colorful.

32

Gizri Boulevard Flyover

33

Observations:

It is located on Gizri Boulevard Road. Houses, shops, banks, dental clinics and

institutes form its vicinity. It is a very clean, large space. It is a fairly new

construction. Construction materials such as concrete blocks are still present. There

are no posters, no trash and traffic police is present.

Proposals:

There is tremendous potential for this space to be transformed into a park or a green

space to serve aesthetic purposes and can be used by the community for leisure.

Various community events could be organised in this space. Many cities use urban

voids to make interesting public spaces for the people. Examples include using the

space as a temporary cinema in London, creating a library for both children and

adults in Hong Kong and a futsal park in Singapore. This space could be used

creatively to provide a public space for the community.

35

Submarine Chowk Underpasses

36

Observations:

There is steady traffic. The pedestrians do not have a safe way to cross the road.

There is a lot of loose dirt and leftover construction materials. There is a small

broken room that seems to have no apparent purpose. There are Chhipa ambulances

in the distance on the roadside.

Proposals:

This space could be converted to a green space to make it more appealing. The entire

landscape of the surrounding area is quite dull. There is very little vegetation and

very few trees. This is an ideal space to to plant more trees. Moreover, part of the

space could be allocated to Chhipa ambulances so they can have a more stable place

to station their vehicles.

39

Clifton Flyover/Bahria Flyover

40

Observation:

In the surrounding areas there are shops, malls, a bus stop and Abdullah Shah Ghazi

shrine. The Bahria Town staff is present. The space is large and clean. Part of the

space is fenced where the Footpath school used to be. Now the school has moved to

Badr Commercial. I spoke to a representative of the Footpath school and he said

that that it was better for the school to be under the flyover and that the new school

on Badr commercial is proving to be very expensive. He did not know why the

school had moved. In addition to this, there is a bus stop that has plenty of space for

the buses to stop and collect passengers across the road. Therefore, traffic does not

get congested. There is also a pedestrian subway crossing which allows people to

cross the road safely.

There are several homeless people sleeping on the footpath. At night, the footpaths

are filled with homeless men, women and children. Men are seen sitting under the

flyover; eating food, socialising and loitering.

Proposals:

Although the space underneath the flyover seems to be well kept, there is a glaring

issue of homelessness that haunts Bahria flyover. Considering that the area has a

mass of people sleeping on the streets, the city government should make provisions

for a homeless shelter. The fenced area could be made into a homeless shelter.

Moreover, temporary accommodations can be constructed. The Abdullah Shah

Ghazi shrine is visited by people across Sindh and all of Pakistan. The pilgrims or

visitors, many of whom are from a low socio-economic background, are offered two

free meals every day. At night however, the shrine shuts down and people who have

travelled hundreds of miles do not have a place to stay in the city. Due to its

proximity to the shrine, it is only fitting that the city government offer a temporary

sheltered space under the Bahria flyover for the country’s poorest.

46

Bahria Underpass

47

Observations:

The space is very clean, well maintained and quite aesthetic. Pavements are wide

and beautiful. The pedestrians have been kept in mind. There are several zebra

crossings and an underground pedestrian subway. Green spaces have been created.

Cleaning staff of Bahria Town is present. Artistic structures have been constructed

to add layers of beauty to the Clifton landscape.

Proposals:

It was quite strange to see that people do not engage in leisurely activities in these

vast spaces. It may be that the Bahria Town staff or the city administration does not

allow people to loiter in these spaces. It can, however, be utilised in a number of

ways. An open theatre could prove to be very successful. With the dramatic

structures in the background and the cool Clifton breeze, it could allow for a unique

experience in the city. As security improves in Karachi, such initiatives should be

considered to draw people back into public spaces. It must be noted that outdoor chai

places have experienced a great boom in business. This reflects that people are eager

to enjoy what the city has to offer. With an open-air cinema/theatre, museum or art

space, the people of Karachi would be able to have a greater experience of the city.

54

Khayaban-e-Iqbal Underpass

55

Observations:

Near the underpass runs the Neher-e-Khayyam. It is terribly polluted. It seems that

it is a neighbourhood waste dump. The water has turned black and is filled with

trash. The smell is very putrid and difficult to bear. A few meters from that site is

the Ocean Mall. The space above the underpass and surroundings have been

developed into a green space. It is the site of a tree plantation drive. There is also a

bus stop, a Chhipa ambulance station and an artistic structure that is dusty and parts

of which have faded.

Proposals:

Although the area above the underpass is fairly well maintained, there is a dire need

for pedestrian crossings. The bus stop ensures a steady flow of pedestrian traffic but

there is little or no arrangement for the pedestrians to cross the streets safely. In

addition to this, it must be noted that the contrast of the dirty stream with the green

space a few meters away is quite striking. Attempts could be made to clean up the

Neher-e-Khayyam.

61

PIDC Flyover and Khyaban-e-Iqbal Flyover (Clifton Bridge)

62

Observations:

The PIDC flyover runs over the Khyaban-e-Iqbal flyover, also referred to as Clifton

Overpass or Clifton Bridge. There is a lot of trash in the archways under the bridge.

Women and children are seen sitting in the archways, talking to each other. There

are people sleeping on the footpaths. There is a mass of rubble completely blocking

some archways. Railway lines run under the bridge. There are stairs leading up to

the bridge. There are two schools operating under it. Right in front of the schools,

where the children play, there is rubble, broken glass and old construction wires. The

teacher I spoke to was reluctant to give information about the schools. She only

revealed that it is run by APWA. Under the PIDC flyover, there are shops, parked

cars, vendors, a market and a mosque. Most of the shops are unoccupied and

abandoned. It is interesting to note that women frequent the market made up of fruit,

vegetable and chaat vendors. The market place is opposite apartment buildings and

must be a convenient place to shop.

Proposals:

The trash and the rubble under the flyovers need to be cleared. There is a steady flow

of pedestrians crossing the railway lines littered with trash, sharp rocks and stones.

A pedestrian bridge over the railway lines would allow people to move more safely.

The safety of the children in the schools should be an important consideration. Part

of the space underneath the PIDC flyover, where the shops are, can be made into a

small park for the children to play in. There is a lot of potential for this space to

become a small haven for the neighborhood. A clean and organized street market of

vendors would be very useful for the community. The abandoned shops have the

potential to become a mart that could have a pharmacy, restaurant, department store.

This would greatly uplift the neighborhood.

74

FTC Flyover

75

Observations:

The pillars and roof of the flyover space has been painted by Shahid Zubair and

team, led by Sana Burney from the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture. The

project has been funded by DC Karachi East. There are several murals that adorn the

space. Several benches have also been installed. People are seen sleeping on them.

There are a few plants here and there but most of the space is barren. One end of the

flyover seems to have been neglected in the art project. It is neither pained, nor

cleaned up. Chhipa ambulances are parked there and the shops/storage spaces

running along that space are in a terrible condition. A police van is present. There

are no posters or advertisements on the flyover

Proposals:

It seems to be a nice place for people to enjoy their leisure time, however, there were

very few people present. Attempts could be made to make the area more appealing.

Newspaper and magazine stands could encourage people to sit there and read.

Moreover, book stalls or open art galleries could make the space more engaging for

the community. Stalls serving chai and snacks could make the atmosphere lively and

enjoyable. Trash bins should be installed. A public bathroom should be constructed

as there is a dearth of public bathrooms in the area. The neglected end of the under-

flyover area should be cleaned and painted. The adjacent shops/storage spaces

should be restored.

79

Nursery Flyover

80

Observations:

There is a traffic police headquarters under the flyover. Trash, rocks and rubble are

scattered in front of it. There are political posters on the pillars. Across the road,

there is a nursery of plants. Construction workers and developers have their

equipment and accommodation under the flyover as well.

Proposals:

Clearing of the trash and rubble could transform this space. The political posters

make the flyover unsightly and should be removed. Most importantly, pedestrian

crossings should be added to facilitate the people on foot. This became apparent as

I struggled to figure out a way to cross the road on food. When I decided in the end

to go forth in my car and make a U-turn to get to the other side, a woman approached

me and asked if I could drop her there too. Therefore, it is clear that pedestrians face

a lot of problems in walking through this area.

86

Fauzia Wahab Flyover

87

Observations:

There has been an attempt to turn the under-flyover space into a green space.

However, it seems as if those efforts were abandoned. In some parts, hedges have

been planted along the sides of the space without any grass in the middle. The grass

is overgrown and the hedges have not been trimmed or taken care of. There is a lot

of trash accumulating at the end of the under-flyover space. Rubbish is strewn across

the entire length of the flyover. There is an open gutter and some rubble.

Proposals:

The space should be cleaned. The open gutter should be closed and the rubble should

be removed. If the under-flyover area is converted into a well maintained green

space, it could be a refreshing site in the neighbourhood. Benches, public bathrooms,

trash cans should be installed.

90

Baloch Colony Flyover

91

Observations:

There is a plaque commemorating the inauguration of the flyover. The remodeling

of the flyover is attributed to political figure from a particular political party. There

are stairs leading up to the flyover. A double road runs under the flyover. There are

many vendors selling snacks, cigarettes, juices, ice. Men are lounging. Rickshaws,

lorries, motorcycles and cars are parked. The sides of the road are lined with trash,

as if it has been swept off the road and left to clutter along the edges. A mechanic’s

shop is servicing motorcycles. Tyres are being replaced. Rubble and trash lie in

heaps. There is an entire section of the under-flyover space that only has parked cars.

In the same area, a roadside restaurant is serving customers bread and curry for

lunch.

The stairs leading up to the flyover are the route that pedestrians have to take to go

from one side of the road to the other side. Trash is accumulating in the corners of

the stairs in the same fashion, as if they have been swept and the trash has not be

collected. When I reached the top of the flyover, I realised that there are no real

footpaths, just small ledges to walk on. The traffic on the flyover is heavy and fast-

moving. It was a terrifying experience. The ledge was so small that to give way to a

person coming from the opposite direction, I had to step on to the busy road. For

pedestrians, mobility across the flyover is very problematic. Walking is a hazardous

task and a safety risk.

A small mound of trash and rubble is seen on the other side of the under-flyover

space. Bushes and plants have been planted along the border between the under-

flyover space and the road. Multitude of vehicles are parked.

Proposals:

Firstly, trash and rubble should be cleared out. Trash cans should be installed to

discourage people from littering. The collection of trash from public spaces such as

these should be monitored and streamlined. Secondly, footpaths should be made

along the sides of the flyover to ensure that the pedestrians can safely move from

one side of the road to the other. Thirdly, strict action should be taken against

vehicles parked on the road. Vehicles should be encouraged to park in spaces where

traffic is not disrupted such as underneath the flyover.

100

Karsaz Flyover

101

Observations:

There is a plaque commemorating the inauguration of the pedestrian overhead

bridge. Parts of the flyover have been painted in truck art stylistic patterns. Across

from the under-flyover space there is a big swathe of land that is empty and seems

to be prepped for growing grass and plants. A double road runs under the flyover.

The overhead pedestrian bridge is quite close to the flyover. The under-flyover space

appears to be clean but there is some trash along the sides of the road.

Proposals:

Planting small shrubs, plants, or trees in the strip that is sectioning the double road

could elevate the under-flyover space and make it more beautiful. Some repair work

is needed to fix loose bricks. Trash should be removed. Although there are no posters

under the flyover, there are some unsightly, ripped posters that are marring the

flyover itself. They should be cleared.

108

PAF Faisal Base Flyover

109

Observations:

A double road runs under the flyover. There is vegetation and greenery in the area.

Pedestrians have a difficult time crossing the road. The area is very clean and well-

maintained.

Proposals:

A pedestrian crossing, in the form of an overhead bridge or zebra crossing, should

be made. It is probable that proximity to the naval base would cause security

concerns, therefore, an appropriate place for the pedestrian crossing should be

decided.

112

Drig Road Flyover and Shah rae Faisal Underpass

113

Observations:

There is an overhead pedestrian bridge close by. The underpass runs under the

flyover. Close to the flyover, there is a traffic police station where there is a lot of

rubble. Although the police station is newly constructed, the area around it is not

well maintained. The benches are faded, broken and dirty. There is a lot of loose dirt.

Leftover construction materials are lying around. There are some parked vehicles

including a public bus. There is a cabin accommodation for workers who are

working on a flyover close by.

The road and footpaths under the flyover are very clean. Pigeon feed is laid out and

a flock of pigeons are seen feeding. Underneath this space is the underpass. Traffic

police is present.

Proposals:

Integrating art into this space in the form of painting murals or creating statues could

brighten the area. Potted plants can also be placed to add ornamental value to an

otherwise bleak area.

117

Shah Faisal Colony Flyover

118

Observations:

The double road runs under the flyover. There is an overhead pedestrian crossing.

Many people are seen using it. By the side of the road there is trash and polluted

water. The under-area is quite big and there are many activities taking place. There

is also opportunity and space for further community engagement. For example, there

is a swathe of land at one of the ends of the under-flyover area which has mounds of

trash here and there. It is unoccupied and serves no purpose. It is an urban void that

can be reclaimed. Moreover, one particular empty stretch of the flyover space is

made unseemly by an overflowing gutter. This empty space, after repairs, can also

be transformed to serve the needs of the neighboring communities. In addition to

this, there is another open space underneath the flyover which serves at the

neighborhood’s Eid Gah.

The overhead bridge is very dirty. Dirt and trash have been swept to the sides instead

of being collected. Across the road, the space under the flyover transforms

dramatically into a vast market. There are shops and vendors selling food, shoes,

bags, women’s dresses, toys and many more things. There are also restaurants

serving lunch. Railways lines run underneath the flyover and the market place

continues across them. There are stairs leading to the top of the flyover. There are

houses and commercial shops along the sides of the flyover. This under-flyover

space is occupied by men, women and children.

Proposals:

The empty swathe of land has the potential to be developed into a great community

space. This space could be developed into a park and a playground for children.

There is a dire need for cricket grounds, basketball and tennis courts that are

accessible to the public. There are many colonies around the area which could

benefit from such a public space.

The stretch of under-flyover space should be developed into public bathrooms. Trash

cans need to be installed.

The swamp that has festered under the flyover and by the side of the road needs to

be drained and the entire area requires a thorough cleaning.

139

Flyover near Jinnah International Airport

140

Observations:

The flyover is fairly new. A few plants are planted underneath in a haphazard way.

Work around the flyover is not entirely complete as some brick-paved areas have

not been completed. There are loose bricks lying around. There are many pigeons in

the area that have found a haven in the under-flyover space.

Proposals:

There needs to be proper landscaping in the space underneath the flyover to

transform it into a green space. At the moment, there seems to be very little

maintenance. There is trash littered under and around the flyover. Trash cans should

be installed.

145

Malir Halt Flyover

146

Observations:

Underneath the flyover, construction equipment and vehicles such as road roller

machines have been stored. There are also storage and living quarters for the

construction projects and workers. In another section of the under-flyover area, cars

and motorcycles are parked. Some fruit vendors are also stationed here. The sides of

the road are littered with trash.

Proposals:

The area under the flyover should be properly organized. Some sections can be

reserved for the storage of construction vehicles and some can be converted into a

green space. A section can also be leased to fruit vendors that have set up shop on

the sides of the road. Moreover, trash cans should be installed and political posters

should be removed. A fresh coat of paint could brighten the under-flyover space.

149

Malir 15 Flyover

150

Observations:

There are many transport vehicles such as lorries, vans and buses parked in the

under-flyover space. There are also vendors selling fruits and books. The side of the

road is bustling with activity. There are many general stores and vendors selling

fruits, snacks and cigarettes. Advertisements mark the pillars of the flyover. There

is a lot of trash on the road itself. Traffic police is absent and traffic is haywire. Buses

stop frequently to drop and pick up passengers. Railway lines run in the vicinity.

There is a lot of trash and rubble around the railway track. There is also a mosque in

the vicinity.

Proposals:

The road space that has been taken over by parked vehicles, trash from overflowing

bins, street vendors should be reclaimed and the under-flyover should be organized

in a manner that is appropriate for the needs of the community. Firstly, trash cans

can be installed to discourage littering and allow for a cleaner environment.

Secondly, sections under the flyover can be made for different activities to create

order. It is evident that parking is a requirement for the neighborhood, therefore the

city government should validate parking under the flyover. Thirdly, a lease-based

market space can be created under the flyover to get the vendors off the road.

Fourthly, in the leftover space a garden with benches can be made to give people a

nice place to rest, socialise and take a break from their day. A bus stand could be

installed, with appropriate pedestrian crossings to facilitate the pedestrian traffic.

162

Quaidabad Flyover

163

Observations:

Under the flyover, there are many kinds of vendors selling a variety of things such

as clothes, shoes, newspapers, books, fruit, milk-based drinks etc. However, they are

not organized. They are spread out all over the under-flyover space. A cobbler is

hard at work; receiving customers in his small corner under the flyover. There is a

walled traffic police station, however there is very little police presence directing the

flow of traffic. Moreover, there are parked vehicles such as cars, vans and

motorcycles dispersed over the entire length of the flyover. Advertisements are

plastered on the walls.

Proposals:

The space can be cleaned and organized to serve the functions that are required by

the community. The city government should be encouraged to actively recognize the

potential that the space possesses to transform the experience of public space for the

people of Quaidabad and neighbouring colonies.

171

Manzil Pump Flyover

172

Observations:

The walls of the under-flyover space are plastered with layers upon layers of posters;

the old over the new. Political slogans are painted in many places. The under-flyover

space also functions as a parking area for trucks, construction vehicles (both

functioning and abandoned) and ambulances. There is a Chhipa outpost as well.

There are some potted plants circling the pillars of the flyover.

Proposals:

The space has potential to uplift its surroundings. The posters and political slogans

can be removed to make space for murals and art. The area has fast moving traffic

and very few shops, therefore there are not many people loitering. Therefore, the

under-flyover space can become an aesthetic nook in the city with the integration of

art. Local artists can be hired to transform the area.

178

YB Chowrangi Flyover

179

Observations:

The road leading to the under-flyover space is in a terrible condition. Moreover, the

road that runs under the flyover is flooded with water. There is a tyre-puncture shop,

as indicated by the presence of machinery, tires and a painted sign on the flyover.

There is also a painting workshop. Buses are parked by the side of the road. There

is a mosque under the flyover. The mosque is in a good condition as opposed to other

structures and buildings in the area. Railway lines run under it as well. An overhead

pedestrian crossing is present. There are many parked cars, buses, vans and leftover

construction materials. Rubble and trash seem to have become a part of the area’s

topography. The area is neglected by the city authorities and is deteriorating rapidly.

Proposal:

First and foremost, the roads need to be repaired and the stagnant water should be

drained. Moreover, small temporary shops can be made for the workers to provide

them with better conditions and have an organized space. They can be leased to the

workers on a yearly basis. The workers themselves prefer this solution. The trash

and rubble should be cleared. The advertisements should be removed and the signs

for the shops should be integrated on the shops themselves. The flyover can become

a canvas for truck-art.

185

Landhi Flyover

186

Observations:

The entire length of the under-flyover space is a market. A variety of products are

being sold such as clocks, electrical appliances, crockery, women’s dresses,

children’s toys, bridal clothes etc. The area is very congested and heavily crowded.

Railway lines run under the flyover. Men are seen urinating in public. There is also

a mosque nearby. The market seems to be well organized with clearly demarcated

shops on the outer edge of the space and inside as well. However, it is quite dark on

the inside.

Proposals:

There should be an overhead pedestrian crossing over the railway lines to stop

pedestrian traffic and prevent littering on the tracks themselves. Public bathrooms

should be installed to discourage public urination and trash cans should be installed

to discourage littering.

196

Jinnah Medical University Flyover

197

Observations:

Parts of the under-flyover space have been painted in truck-art style. A double road

runs under the flyover and there is a traffic police station. Although there have been

attempts by the city government to embellish and enhance the space, heaps of

rubbish have significantly reduced the beauty of the area. There is bird feed on the

pavements for pigeons. Close to the flyover there are many street vendors selling

food on the side of the road, catering to people who visit Jinnah hospital and

university.

Proposals:

Trash cans should be installed and trash collection should be strictly implemented.

Benches can be set up and the vendors can be moved here to create a nice market

space and leisure area. Public bathrooms should be installed here as there is a serious

dearth of public bathrooms in the city.

201

Hotel Mehran Underpass

202

Observations:

There is heavy traffic over the underpass. There is grass on one of the belts dividing

the road. The other belt is barren and has a city government trolley parked on it.

Proposals:

The green belts should be restored.

204

PIDC bridge

205

Observations:

The area under the bridge has heaps of trash scattered all over the place. A road runs

under the bridge. Around the bridge there are shops, fruit vendors and restaurants.

Vans and rickshaws are parked haphazardly.

Proposals:

Installation of trash dumps and immediate trash collection is necessary to clear the

road.

209

MT Khan Road flyover

210

Observations:

This is a heavy traffic area. The flyover has several structures built under it including

a traffic police station and a K electric storage space. Debris and rubble have

accumulated close to the structures. There is bird feed on the pavement for pigeons.

Overall the space is quite dull and dusty.

Proposals:

The debris should be cleared out and the flyover should be painted. The space can

be accommodated with plants, public art installations or a garden to enhance it.

214

Jinnah Flyover and Bridge

215

Observations:

The Jinnah Interchange is a network of flyovers and bridges. Underneath this

network is the Rotary Food Park, Port Grand Mosque and a nursery. Railway lines

run under the Jinnah Flyover. This is a fast-moving traffic area and the pedestrian’s

experience of moving through this space is very difficult. There are no zebra

crossings and the footpaths are incredibly small. Traffic policemen are present.

Rubble has accumulated in some corners.

Proposals:

This area has an immense capacity to be converted into a beautiful garden. Vines

can be spread over the pillars of the flyovers to make the area bright and green. The

rubble should be cleared. Moreover, it would be very helpful for pedestrians if zebra

crossing is demarcated and footpaths are widened. The metal wall surrounding the

bridge, shielding the view of the Rotary Food Park should be removed as it makes

the area drab and dull.

225

Mauripur Road Lyari Expressway

226

Observations:

The area under the expressway has a lot of rubble and it is evident that the area has

suffered neglect. There are shops and a mosque in the vicinity.

Proposals:

This space can be turned into a big park. It would add aesthetic value to the area and

serve as a useful public space for the neighborhood. There are many neighborhoods

nearby that could benefit from a public park. A jogging track can be established

along the length of the flyover, and on the sides, benches and a children’s park can

be made.

229

Gulbai Flyover

230

Observations:

Trash is littered all over the under-flyover area and heaps of it have accumulated in

many corners. Men were seen urinating in the mounds of trash. Chhipa ambulances

and an NICD Chest Unit are stationed in the area as well. Similar to other flyovers,

the walls are plastered with political posters and advertisements. There are many

shops and restaurants nearby. Problems of homelessness are evident as people can

be seen sleeping under the flyover. Vans and rickshaws are parked under the flyover.

Traffic policemen are present.

Proposal:

Trash collection should be implemented and trash cans should be installed. A

temporary homeless shelter could be initiated in the area that helps people find

employment and homes. Public bathrooms can be installed to limit public urination.

Moreover, the advertisements should be removed and the walls should become a

canvas for local artists.

234

Sher Shah Flyover

235

Observations:

The under-flyover area is severely neglected by the city authorities. Similar to other

flyovers, there are mounds of trash accumulating in the space and the walls are

covered with old political posters and advertisements. Some sections of the space

have been walled off to create a parking space for the surrounding corporations.

Proposals:

The most immediate action that should be taken is cleaning the area and

implementing regular trash collection.

246

Afzi Altaf Flyover

247

Observations:

There is a lot of empty, unoccupied space under the flyover. One section has been

allocated for parking and the rest of the area has the potential to be transformed into

a useful public space for the community. There are shops and restaurants in the

vicinity. Some vendors are stationed on the side of the road.

Proposals:

The area can be cleaned up; benches and public bathrooms can be installed and a

space of leisure can be created. It can accommodate vendors selling food and serve

as a food park for the community.

253

Habib Bank Bridge

254

Observations:

The area under the bridge is littered with trash. Foul waste is accumulating in close

proximity to the bridge. There are old tram tracks running under the bridge. There

are stairs leading to the top of the bridge.

Proposals:

The primary task at hand in this space is cleaning and maintenance.

257

Bacha Khan Flyover

258

Observations:

The area under the flyover is very crowded. It is a large space and a site for a variety

of activities. Over a dozen vendors are parked on the road under the flyover. There

are people sleeping on the concrete ledges and on old street carts. The abundance of

fruit vendors has led to the proliferation of a large fruit market. Fruit vendors have

also used the area under the flyover to store cardboard and wooden boxes. There are

other vendors selling food and snacks. There are many cars that seem to be

abandoned. People also keep their domestic animals such as cows in this area. There

are several dhabas catering to customers. Men are relaxing, eating and drinking chai.

The area is predominantly a male space; only a few women were seen in the fruit

market. Trash and rubble are plentiful. There seems to be no arrangement to dispose

of the waste that is created by the various actors and their activities. The flyover is

marked by competing political symbols. It seems as if the flyover space is a contested

space for political parties vying for power. A few people in the area revealed that

they pay “bhatta” (illegal tax) to police officers and political party workers to occupy

space under the flyover. According to a police officer on site, most of the people in

the area are of Pashtun descent.

Proposals:

Similar to most other under-flyover spaces, the area requires cleaning, repair work

and maintenance. The area is quite large and should be organized to suit the needs

of the community better. A community centre in the area could be very beneficial

for the city’s migrant population. The centre could provide guidance in terms of

employment, housing and education. Moreover, the centre could allow the

community to actively help those in need. The homeless people in the area could

benefit from such a service. Additionally, the market space can be organized in an

efficient manner to create a better shopping atmosphere. Parking spaces should be

demarcated. Police and traffic servicemen should be required to maintain the

orderliness of the area once it is organized. Moreover, the flyover space should be

depoliticized by removing the political symbols. The community centre should

ideally function as a space where the community discusses local politics without the

usurpation of political parties and loyalist rhetoric.

271

Nazimabad Board Interchange

272

Observations:

The void under the flyover has been made into a green space. Children were seen

playing in the fountain and men were lounging in the grass. A few posters were

plastered on the pillars of the flyover but it is in much better condition than many

other flyovers. It is a fairly new construction. However, it is already showing signs

of neglect.

Proposals:

The plantation of trees should be finished. Trash cans should be installed to deter

littering. Benches can be added for people to sit and relax. A small children’s park

can also be made. A jogging track would be perfect in the area.

277

Jail Chowrangi Flyover

278

Observations:

The space under the flyover is amassing a lot of trash and there are many homeless

people sleeping on the concrete ledges. There are a few vendors selling food. There

are portable children’s swings present without the presence of an owner or children

to use them. A small mosque along with a dilapidated ablution room are the only

two structures under the flyover space. Some vehicles are parked randomly. There

seems to be an attempt to pave the space but the work is unfinished and there are

loose bricks lying around. There is a big lot that is uncultivated for any kind of

activity. The space is similar to the Nazimabad Board Interchange and possesses

similar development potential. There is an overheard pedestrian crossing that is in a

very bad condition. Moreover, the vendors expressed that they wished that the city

government would allow them to legally occupy the under-flyover area through

permissions or leases. They stated that much of their earnings would be spent in

paying “bhatta” (illegal tax) to city government officials and police officers. They

also said that they experienced harassment from the officials on a daily basis.

Proposals:

Besides cleaning, repair and maintenance, the space should be modelled into a green

space or a park for the neighborhood. For the people sleeping under the flyover, the

city should provide shelters. Moreover, the vendors should be protected from

harassment and illegal taxation by officially leasing areas of the space to them.

291

Hassan Flyover

292

Observations:

The area under the flyover accommodates Seylani Welfare Trust which provides

food to the homeless, Chhipa Welfare Association which provides ambulance

services and food to the homeless and Human Disable Welfare Organisation

(HDWO) which aims to help disabled people find employment. There are rolled up

beds made of cloth even on the overhead pedestrian crossing which suggests that

there are many homeless people in the area. It is interesting to note that the charitable

kiosks are not harassed by the police as they possess official letters of permission to

occupy space under the flyover. An official from HDWO said that it was difficult to

obtain the letter and only people in positions of power could negotiate an approval.

It is interesting to note that there are examples of legal stays under the flyovers which

are free from harassment and illegal tax collection. This suggests that it is possible

for other parties such as the street cart hawkers and vendors to negotiate a legal space

for themselves under the flyover. There are many spaces under and near the flyover

that are empty and unoccupied.

Proposals:

There is a big swathe of land that can be used to create temporary accommodation

for the homeless. Considering the vast amount of homeless people in Karachi, the

city government needs to employ creative means to offer housing to all the citizens.

The urban voids created by flyover can be used to offer space to the homeless. Public

bathrooms should be installed and charitable organisations should be invited to help

the homeless people recover from drug addictions and find employment. There is an

area surrounded by trees which could be made into a park with benches. Vendors

from other spots on the flyover can be moved here to create a small market and

leisure space.

305

National Stadium flyover/ Qasim Omer flyover

306

Observations:

It is apparent from the heaps of ash that trash is burnt here. As with other flyovers,

littered trash is accumulating along the sides of the road and in corners. The area

under the flyover has been paved and there are plants along the borders of the paved

area. Some pillars of the flyover have been painted in bright colours. A few political

posters are seen plastered on the walls. Water and feed for pigeons are present in

clay containers. Although, it seems that there has been an attempt to enhance the

space under the flyover to make it appealing, the accumulation of trash and lack of

maintenance makes it a very dull and dreary space.

Proposals:

The paved area possesses the potential to flourish into a useful public space for the

community. Benches, trash cans and public bathrooms can be installed. Newspaper

stands and second hand bookstores can be introduced. The shade from the flyover

provides a respite from the Karachi heat and can become a space for people to spend

their leisure hours.

309

Green line bus Gurumander area

310

Observations:

Since the project is still underway, there are concrete blocks and construction

materials lying around.

Proposals:

The Green Line metro bus network extends to many parts of Karachi and as such,

produces many urban voids along the city’s landscape. It is imperative to creatively

use those voids to limit the loss of urban space. Place-making initiatives should

become a priority for the city government to develop and improve the relationship

people have with the city.

311

Teen Hatti Flyover

312

Observations:

A double road runs under the flyover which is divided by awkwardly placed, broken

and misshapen concrete road blocks. The walls of the flyover are covered with

political posters. There are makeshift shops made with wood that are selling flowers

and garlands. There are many shops selling garlands in the area. There is a Chhipa

ambulance outpost, fruit juice vendors, cobblers and parked cars.

Proposals:

In addition to efficient cleaning and trash collection, the space can be enhanced

through the creation of a marketplace. Shops can be made which can accommodate

the florists, fruit vendors, cobblers and other businesses in the area. Seating areas

with tables and chairs can be installed to provide a leisure space for the people to

enjoy the marketplace. Public bathrooms and trashcans can be installed. Moreover,

lights can be installed to allow the marketplace to function at night as well. The

political posters can be removed in favor of local artistic expressions. The

community can be involved in the painting and embellishing of the flyover space.

320

Lyari Expressway over SM Taufiq Road

321

Observations:

There is a lot of construction material such as bags of cement and wires lying around.

The wires seem to have been abandoned and have coalesced with the trash. There

are two makeshift shops, made out of wood, selling flowers and a vendor selling

sugarcane juice on the road under the expressway. There is a slum under the

expressway. Men and women and children are seen residing in makeshift homes.

Proposals:

The space under the expressway which has been neglected has the potential to be

developed into a green space. Plants, grass and trees can be grown here. The shops

and vendors under the flyover can be moved to the Teen Hatti flyover space. The

city is in a desperate need to accommodate its homeless and slum dwelling

population. The under-flyover areas can be used to provide accommodation to those

who need it if the structure of the flyover can withstand such a development. A low-

cost housing scheme can be initiated along the riverbank once the area is cleaned.

323

Teen Hatti Bridge

324

Observations:

The Lyari River runs under the Teen Hatti bridge. It appears heavily polluted. The

river banks are fused with plastic waste materials. There is also a slum along the

river and under the Lyari Expressway.

Proposals:

A clean-up drive needs to be initiated.

327

Daak Khana Intersection flyover at S M Taufiq Road

328

Observations:

Under the twin flyovers at the Daak Khana intersection layers upon layers of trash

have accumulated. The space is a wasteland of sorts. The walls of the flyovers are

burdened with unattractive political posters. Motorcycles, cars and vans are parked.

A part of the under-flyover space has been cleaned and turned into a beautiful green

space. In this area, there is also a nursery of plants and a display of clay pots that are

for sale. The caretaker of the nursery expressed that the entire length of the flyover

used to be a trash dump and has now been transformed. He said there are also plans

to transform the remaining sections. The contrast between the two areas, only a few

feet from each other, makes it apparent how important it is to save spaces that have

sunk into decay. Moreover, there are many people sitting on ledges on the side of

the road.

Proposals:

The twin flyovers have created an urban void that can be transformed into a beautiful

park. There is enough light entering the under-flyover space to allow for plants to

flourish. The political posters should be removed from the walls and vines can be

made to grow on them. Many people are seen loitering in this space and a park would

be a perfect place for them to spend their leisure hours.

334

Liaquatabad flyover

335

Observations:

There are sections of this area that are fenced. The most immediate noticeable feature

of this under-flyover space is that it serves as a parking area for many different types

of transport vehicles. Vans, lorries and rickshaws are abundant here. In another

fenced area, there is a small market and more parked rickshaws. On the ledges of the

under-flyover space, there are cobblers attending to customers and homeless

individuals sleeping. Political posters and banners adorn walls and fruit vendors

occupy the area on the sides of the road under the shade of the flyover.

Proposals:

In order to create public spaces of a high quality that invite citizens to build

relationships with their neighbourhoods, the city government should consider the

needs of the community. It is apparent from the scenes under the flyover that an

organized, vibrant market space would benefit the area greatly. Therefore, attempts

should be made to clean up the area, remove posters and create a functional and

orderly market place. Zebra crossings should be introduced to facilitate the

pedestrians.

340

Liaquatabad Underpass

341

Observations:

The area above the underpass has not been developed. There are only a few, wild

plants. Some of the plants seem to be dying. Telephone poles are burdened with old

posters and banners which make the area look very unsightly.

Proposals:

The area can be cleared and developed into a green belt.

344

Gharibabad Underpass

345

Observations:

Part of the area above the underpass has been paved. It is occupied by rickshaws,

lorries and statues of giraffes. Remnants of advertisements can be seen on the

giraffes.

Proposals:

The awkwardly placed giraffes do not make much sense with the parked vehicles

around them. The vehicles should be moved, children’s swings should be installed

and potted plants should be kept in the area. Benches can also be installed to allow

people to sit. In order to facilitate the movement of people to and from the paved

park area, zebra crossings should be made.

346

Nazimabad Underpass

347

Observations:

The space above the underpass has been converted into a park. There is very little

littering here compared to other places. Empty spots have been turned into green

spaces. However, the grass in the park seems to be dying.

Proposals:

Benches and a children’s park can be added to enhance the park. Trash cans should

be installed to prevent littering. More trees should be planted to make the area

greener.

348

Nazimabad Flyover

349

Observations:

There is an entire community of homeless people who live under the flyover. I spoke

to a woman who told me that the people living there came from different areas of

Punjab and Sindh. The community is living in absolute filth and squalor. Women

were washing clothes and drying them on a line. Another woman was seen cooking

roti for her family on a small stove. There are many children in the area. There is a

section of the area that has been fenced off. Caricatures of monuments are kept here

such as Quad-e-Azam Ali Jinnah’s mausoleum. I did not understand the purpose of

the small monuments. There are heaps of rubbish everywhere.

Proposals:

A housing initiative for the people living under the flyover is absolutely necessary.

It is important to note that the city possesses many spaces that can be creatively

developed to suit the needs of the people. The areas under flyovers and above

underpasses are examples of such spaces. If possible, accommodation quarters

should be installed under flyovers to offer the homeless people of the city a chance

at a quality life.

358

Shaheed e Millat Expressway #1 near city school PAF

359

Observations:

The under-flyover area is bustling with a range of activities. Traffic is chaotic in the

area and traffic policemen are seen frantically trying to manage the hordes beeping

cars, buses and roaring motorcycles. Cars and vans are parked. There are vendors

selling corn cobs and other food items, catering to school children. Domestic animals

are seen to be abandoned on the pavement in the heavy traffic. Similar to other under

flyover areas, trash is dispersed everywhere and advertisements are plastered on the

wall.

Proposals:

Since there is a lot of pedestrian traffic, measures should be introduced to facilitate

pedestrians. Many of the pedestrians are school children and this heavy traffic area

is not a safe environment. Therefore pedestrian crossings with warning lights should

be installed. Additionally, the vendors can be leased a space under the flyover to

create an informal market place where the children can buy their snacks after school.

Parking should only be allowed in a demarcated section of the area. The trash and

advertisements on the walls should be cleared in favor of benches and bright paint

to create a vibrant environment.

365

Shaheed e Millat Expressway #2 Tipu Sultan Flyover near school Cordoba

366

Observations:

This is a new construction and work is still under progress. The space under the

flyover has been paved and is currently empty. There are no advertisements on the

walls. The area is clean.

Proposals:

Once construction is complete, the area under the flyover can be developed into a

useful public space for the community. The pillars of the flyover can be painted and

benches can be installed.

369

Askari flyover

370

Observations:

The paved space under the flyover is mostly empty and clean. However, the walls

are dirty and have remnants of advertisements stuck on them. There are bushes and

plants along the borders of the under-flyover space but in the middle, there is no

grass or vegetation.

Proposals:

The flyover is quite long. It is perfect for the development of a park and a jogging

track. Pedestrian crossings can be installed in appropriate spots. Since there is a big

shopping mall in the vicinity, there is a steady flow of people frequenting this area.

Moreover, there are many apartment buildings in the area as well. A big park under

the flyover could greatly uplift the neighbourhood.

373

Johar Mor Bridge

374

Observations:

The area under the flyover is paved. However, in some spots, the bricks have come

loose. Much of the space is unoccupied. The only structure present is a public

bathroom that is out of order. The walls of the flyover are covered with

advertisements and banners. The area is in need of repair and maintenance.

Construction material is lying around.

Proposals:

There many apartment buildings and commercial shops in the area. A promenade-

style area under the flyover, that serves as a walkway and open market, could be a

good public space for the community. For that purpose, repair work and repainting

of the flyover is necessary.

379

Bridge on Johar Mor Road

380

Observations:

There is a dirty stream running under the flyover. Rubbish and trash have destroyed

the area.

Proposals:

Trash collection needs to be implemented immediate and trash dumps installed to

deter people from throwing their rubbish in the stream or under the bridge.

381

University Road Flyover/Samama flyover

382

Observations:

The area under the flyover serves as a parking space and trash dump. It is apparent

from the blackened concrete that trash is burnt here. The pillars and walls of the

flyover are covered with posters. There is traffic police office here.

Proposals:

The space is large enough to accommodate a leisure area where people can sit, drink

chai, socialize and read. Trash needs to be cleared and the appearance of the pillars

and walls need to be refreshed. A leisure market place has the potential to flourish

here.

386

Abul Isphahani Flyover

387

Observations:

A double road runs the flyover. Fruit vendors are stationed on the side of the road.

Trash and rubble have collected in neglected areas of the flyover space.

Proposals:

The area in which trash is collecting can be cleaned and developed into a park with

pavements. A large square can be made in the park which can serve as a marketplace.

389

U Turn Flyover

390

Observations:

A double road runs under the flyover. It is similar to Abul Isphahani flyover in

several respects. It has vendors stationed on paved areas under the flyover and heaps

of trash.

Proposals:

The trashed area can be cleaned and developed into a paved market area. Trees can

be planted around the market area to make it more aesthetic and cooler in the

summer.

392

Rashid Minhas Flyover

393

Observations:

There is rampant littering and accumulation of trash. This problem is common in

most under-flyover spaces due to the fact that the city has no trash bins. The flyover

is quite long and provides ample space for a range of activities to take place under

it. However, it is not well organized. Vendors, ambulances and rickshaws are parked

haphazardly. There are parts of the area that are paved and parts that are plain ground

with a border of plants. There is a section of the flyover that has paved paths.

Moreover, this seems to be an area where people hail rickshaws and wait for buses.

It is also a space for leisure; people are seen sitting on chairs by the side of the road.

There is an overhead pedestrian bridge but no zebra crossings.

Proposals:

The section of the under-flyover space that has straight, long pathways lined by

plants has the potential to be developed into a jogging/walking track. The unpaved

areas of the flyovers can be developed into parks to provide a space for leisure.

Separate parking spaces can be assigned to ambulances. The Sadequain Institute of

Art is directly opposed the under-flyover area. Art students from the institute can be

invited to contribute to the design of the space.

405

Gulshan-e-Iqbal flyover

406

Observations:

Sections of the under-flyover space have been walled off to create storage and

parking spaces for the city’s vehicles such as waste management trucks. Many

vehicles enter and exit these compounds. The space is very drab. There are loose,

low hanging wires, advertisements and stains on walls.

Proposals:

The under-flyover area needs to be cleared of advertisements and freshly painted.

409

Allama Shabbir Ahmed Usmani flyover

410

Observations:

A double road runs under the flyover. Much of the space has been paved, however

there are spots where the pavement bricks are missing. It is apparent that damages

have not been repaired. There are a variety of vendors selling food and snacks. An

NICD Chest Pain Unit is also stationed here. There is significant littering and no

trash cans. There are a few plants along the border of the paved area but they are not

being taken care of. There is a pedestrian overhead bridge.

Proposals:

A standard recommendation for most under-flyover spaces is that they be cleaned,

repaired and maintained. Moreover, public toilets and trash bins should be installed.

Additionally, zebra crossings, pedestrian warnings or other pedestrian crossings

should be introduced to facilitate the pedestrians. This particular flyover space could

greatly benefit from these measures, along with a design that organizes the various

activities in the space into specific sections.

415

Lyari Expressway near Imitaz Store

416

Observations:

The Lyari Expressway, at different points along its length, creates many urban voids.

This is one such area. The Lyari river runs under the expressway. The riverbank

serves as a parking space. It is also apparent that trash is dumped into the river and

in its surroundings. The entire scene is quite dismal. The river is terribly polluted

and there is utter disregard for the environment.

Proposals:

Ideally, the river and its surrounding areas should be restored. Trash disposal

routines and systems need to be amended. Moreover, environmentalists should be

consulted to reverse the effects of pollution on the river.

419

Sohrab Goth Flyover

420

Observations:

A double road runs under the flyover. The sidewalk is overflowing with trash and

spilling onto the road. There are heaps of rubbish close to clusters of plants and

bushes. On the walls of the flyovers the words “Keep Shah rae Pakistan clean” have

been painted.

Proposals:

Trash dumps need to be installed and trash collection needs to be implemented.

Moreover, more plants should be planted and maintained.

423

Sohrab Goth Underpass

424

Observations:

The underpass opens to Shah rae Pakistan road. There are people crossing the road

in fast traffic.

Proposals:

Pedestrian crossings should be made.

426

Water Pump Flyover

427

Observations:

The condition of the under-flyover space is similar to that of the Daak Khana

Intersection flyover. There are heaps of rubbish and rubble in one section of the

flyover. In this section, cars, vans and lorries are parked haphazardly. The other half

of the under-flyover space has been reclaimed. It is relatively much cleaner and

plants have been planted. However, there is still significant room for improvement.

There are many men sitting, loitering and socializing in this area.

Proposals:

It must be noted that the area demands the presence of a leisure space where people

can sit and spend time. Therefore, a park with a jogging track, benches and paved

market place should be developed. Trash bins and public bathrooms should be

installed as well.

435

Ayesha Manzil Flyover

436

Observations:

This under-flyover area is similar to that of the Water Pump Flyover and Daak Khana

Intersection Flyover. One section of the flyover has been reclaimed and plants have

been planted. Meanwhile, in other sections, there is trash, rubble and parked

vehicles. There are people living under the flyover as well. There is rampant littering

in the absence of trash bins. There are also large, unoccupied areas which can be

developed into useful public spaces.

Proposals:

The proposals for this space are similar to that of the two aforementioned flyovers.

Additionally, it is recommended that the occupied space under the flyover be

developed into temporary housing for the homeless.

444

Nagan Chowrangi Flyover

445

Observations:

The flyover in this location has created space for a variety of activities. One section

of the under-flyover serves as an extended space for the work of the mechanic shops,

the other functions as a chai dhaba (roadside cafe). There is also a section that is

being used for parking. Trash and rubble are accumulating in every section.

Proposals:

The spaces that are being occupied for commercial use should be officially leased to

the business owners and they should be accountable for the cleanliness of the area.

There is a lot of room for plants and green spaces to flourish, therefore, trees and

other vegetation should be planted.

457

North Karachi Interchange

458

Observations:

Some parts of the under-flyover area are paved but broken. Several vendors selling

fruits and snacks are parked here. Many buses and rickshaws are parked here as

well. An NICD Chest Pain Unit is stationed here. Seylani Welfare also offers free

food to people in this area. There is a lot of rubbish. Men are urinating in public.

Proposals:

The unpaved areas should be transformed into a green space. The paved areas

should be repaired and organised to serve specific functions. This space can

become a market place/park.

464

KPT Flyover

465

Observations:

A few meters from the flyover, there is a small roadside market of street vendors

selling a variety of products including fruits, clothes and toys. Under the flyover,

there are many interesting spaces. There is a big, empty, fenced park with four or

five exits. It is called the KPT Interchange Park. I spoke to the caretaker of the park

to ask why it was empty. He told me that people were not allowed inside the park

because of the foot traffic it would create. He said that the movement of people in

and out of the park could be dangerous because of the fast-moving traffic around the

park. The Qayyumabad neighborhood is very close to the flyover. I believe the

people in that neighborhood could benefit greatly from having access to the park.

There are many street hawkers selling food and snacks on the sides of the road. When

I spoke to them, they complained about harassment and extortion by the traffic

police. There is also a traffic police headquarters under the flyover. Behind the

office, there are several vendors serving savory snacks to people. There are tables

and chairs. It appears like a dhaba. There are also several cars parked in that space.

I spoke to the head of the traffic police in that office and he denied the accusations

of extortion. When I asked about the parked cars and street hawkers right behind his

office, he was quite uncomfortable and changed the topic.

There is a fenced area under the flyover with compartments. The caretaker of that

space told me that it is going to be a school. There is also a small mosque under the

flyover. Men are seen playing ludo on the footpath. Sir Syed Hospital is in the

vicinity and Imtiaz Store.

Proposals:

The park needs to be opened to the public. The problem of the street vendors could

be solved effectively if they are able to sell their goods in the park. The park could

function as a small market and leisure space for the neighborhood. To account for

the foot traffic, pedestrian crossings should be created. Trash cans need to be

installed to prevent littering. It is quite obvious from the image of the men playing

ludo on the footpath that people need a space to spend their leisure hours. The

opening of the park is, therefore, a necessity for the neighborhood.

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urban voids: flyovers and underpasses in karachi

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