KARACHI: Several major roads in Karachi remained closed on Wednesday for the third consecutive day as authorities maintained heightened security across the city following violent protests triggered by the assassination of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The unrest began after demonstrations erupted outside the US Consulate earlier this week. During the protests, at least eleven people lost their lives and several others were injured, intensifying security concerns in the metropolis.
Key routes around Mai Kolachi Road and PIDC have been sealed with shipping containers and barriers. At the railway crossing on Mai Kolachi, only residents and office workers coming from Boat Basin are being allowed to pass after showing their national identity cards. Police and Rangers personnel have been deployed in large numbers to monitor the situation.
The PIDC Bridge has been blocked with containers, cutting off access towards Jinnah Bridge and Mai Kolachi for general traffic. Roads linking MT Khan Road to PIDC Road and Mai Kolachi have also been closed, with security forces stationed at multiple checkpoints. Commuters travelling from Jinnah Bridge towards PIDC and Mai Kolachi are similarly facing restrictions.
Authorities have advised residents of areas near Bilawal House and Boat Basin to use alternative routes, including Clifton Bridge, Metropole and II Chundrigar Road. Travellers can also pass through Saddar to reach different parts of the city.
Traffic congestion has worsened, particularly on II Chundrigar Road, where diversions have led to heavy pressure since Tuesday. On Wednesday, the situation remained tense as vehicles moved slowly through the affected areas.
Commuters coming from Mauripur Road towards Boat Basin have been directed to use Jinnah Bridge and then proceed to II Chundrigar Road before taking alternate routes to Clifton and Defence. Another suggested route is via Kutiyana Memorial Hospital towards adjoining streets connected to II Chundrigar Road.
Traffic police and local law enforcement officials are stationed at various points to guide citizens about road diversions. Authorities have urged residents to contact the traffic police helpline at 1915 for the latest updates on road conditions.
The ongoing closures reflect the continued security alert in Karachi as officials work to prevent further unrest and maintain law and order in the city.
