Karachi witnessed chaotic scenes on Sunday while a demonstration near the Karachi Press Club triggered a huge traffic jam in the region, leaving the shuttlers blocked for hours.
Long queues of vehicles, including cars and two-wheelers, were seen extending to key areas such as the Empress, Saddar, II Chundrigar Road and Club Road. Many residents have been forced to break their fasting on the road with limited food and water, highlighting the serious impact of the disturbance.
The authorities responded by closing several major roads around the Karachi Press Club, notably Din Muhammad Wafai Road to Mr. Kiani Chowrangi and Fawara Chowk, which only aggravates congestion.
Citizens went to social networks to express their frustration, calling on city officials to better manage such situations in the future and to ensure that alternative routes are clearly communicated.
Article 144 imposed in Karachi
The Sindh government imposed article 144 in Karachi on Monday, prohibiting the rallies of more than five people in the midst of concerns about potential protests.
The restriction aims to respond to public security concerns and to maintain order in the midst of potential disturbances. Officials have warned that offenders will face legal action under relevant provisions.
As a precaution, all the roads surrounding the Karachi Press Club were sealed with vehicles parked shortly after the release of the notification, causing a serious congestion of traffic in the region.
