The IT Ministry has initiated a review of the Rs. 31 billion Karachi IT Park project to reassess designs, procurement plans, and implementation challenges before relaunching the bidding process.
IT Ministry Launches Review of Rs. 31 Billion Karachi IT Park Project Amid Delays and Procurement Challenges
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has initiated an independent review of the Rs. 31 billion Karachi IT Park project, a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening the country’s digital economy and technology infrastructure. The review, being conducted through the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), seeks to assess key project documents before the government proceeds with the next phase of implementation.
According to official details, consultancy firms have been invited through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to evaluate the project’s feasibility studies, engineering designs, cost estimates, technical specifications, and contractual documentation. The move comes after multiple procurement and bidding challenges reportedly slowed progress on the project. Authorities hope that an independent assessment will help identify gaps and improve the project’s execution strategy.
The Karachi IT Park is one of Pakistan’s largest technology infrastructure projects, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs. 31 billion. However, despite being planned as a major hub for innovation and technology businesses, implementation has experienced significant delays. Reports indicate that physical progress currently stands at around 10 percent, while financial progress remains close to 5 percent.
The project has also faced complications due to revisions in building design and height restrictions linked to its proximity to Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. These changes, combined with unsuccessful tendering rounds, prompted the government to reassess the project’s planning and procurement framework.
Once completed, the Karachi IT Park is expected to accommodate more than 200 technology companies, offering modern office spaces, research facilities, a data center, and innovation hubs designed to accelerate Pakistan’s IT exports, entrepreneurship ecosystem, and digital transformation agenda.
