If you’re planning to travel in Karachi on Friday evening, it’s advisable to plan ahead as Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced nationwide protests against the petroleum levy and rising inflation, with demonstrations expected to affect traffic on several major roads across the city.
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JI Karachi chief Munim Zafar said protests will be held at 510 key locations and highways across Pakistan, including Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta and Peshawar, to protest against the government’s economic policies and the increasing financial burden on citizens.
According to the party, roads along the protest routes will remain closed during the demonstrations, although ambulances and other emergency services will be given priority access.
Routes Closed in Karachi amid JI Protest
Authorities have announced that Shahrah-e-Faisal has been closed from Nursery to Karachi Airport due to the ongoing protests.
Traffic heading towards the airport is being diverted from Nursery to Shahrah-e-Quaideen. Motorists travelling to Jinnah International Airport or other destinations along Shahrah-e-Faisal are advised to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time to avoid delays.
Traffic Advisory
Traffic flow has been affected on M.A. Jinnah Road and Numaish Chowrangi due to rallies and protests being held by religious and political groups at various locations across the city.
Slow-moving traffic has also been reported on the following routes:
- Both sides of Lasbela Chowk to Numaish Chowrangi
- Both sides of Tibet Centre to Numaish Chowrangi
- Both sides of Numaish Chowrangi to Shahrah-e-Quaideen
Karachi Traffic Police officers are on-site and are diverting vehicles to alternate routes to help maintain the flow of traffic.
Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in these areas, use alternate routes, and follow the instructions of traffic police to minimize delays.
For traffic updates or emergencies, contact the Traffic Helpline at 1915. The latest traffic information is also available on FM 88.6.
Also Read: Petrol dealers announce nationwide indefinite strike
Motorists are advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and use alternate routes where possible to avoid delays.
Munim Zafar said the protest campaign would continue until the petroleum levy is withdrawn.
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He urged citizens to participate in the demonstrations, arguing that collective public action was necessary to press the government to address the economic difficulties faced by the public.
The JI Karachi chief said a united population of 250 million Pakistanis could effectively raise its voice for its rights.
