Section 144 imposed in Karachi, roads around Press Club closed to traffic

Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi has enforced Section 144 across the city, prohibiting public rallies, protests, sit-ins, and gatherings of more than five people.

The decision, announced on Monday, follows a recommendation from Karachi South Zone Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Syed Asad Raza, issued a day earlier in response to a planned protest by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) at the Karachi Press Club. The demonstration was intended to oppose the alleged illegal detention of BYC leaders Dr. Mahrang Baloch and Bebarg Baloch.

According to the official notification, the ban is effective immediately and will remain in place for March 24, 2025. The directive aims to maintain public order and prevent disruptions to traffic and security threats.

In his recommendation, DIG Raza emphasized that protests on major roads could lead to severe traffic congestion and pose significant security risks. He further stated that precautionary measures were necessary to ensure the safety of protest participants, the general public, and the overall security of the city.

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Moreover, Karachi police issued a statement on Monday regarding road closures around the Karachi Press Club. Traffic authorities announced that both roads connecting Din Muhammad Wafai Road to MR Kiani Chowrangi and Fawara Chowk have been closed for traffic due to security concerns.

To manage the disruption, alternative routes have been designated, directing traffic from MR Kiani Chowrangi towards Court Road, Thana Gali towards Sarwar Shaheed Road, and Fawara Chowk towards Zainab Market.