Karachi: The people of Karachi continue to suffer from severe inconvenience, mental stress, and economic loss due to prolonged road blockages and extraordinary traffic restrictions imposed during VVIP movements across the megacity, stated Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor. He has called for measures to alleviate the hardships faced by Karachiites during these protocol movements.
According to Pasban Democratic Party, major arteries and connecting roads are often closed for extended periods to facilitate the convoys of ministers, politicians, and senior officials, resulting in massive traffic jams that paralyze routine life. Office workers, students, patients, elderly citizens, businesspersons, and daily wage earners are frequently stranded for hours without prior information or alternative arrangements.
Karachi, being the economic backbone of Pakistan, already faces immense traffic pressure due to its growing population, infrastructure limitations, and the increasing number of vehicles on the roads. The addition of protocol-related closures further aggravates the suffering of ordinary citizens, Shakoor noted.
Citizens and civil society representatives have regularly demanded that the concerned authorities adopt modern traffic management practices to minimize public disruption while ensuring necessary security arrangements. Shakoor pointed out that around the world, many countries successfully manage high-level security movements without bringing entire cities to a standstill.
He suggested limiting complete road closures to only a few minutes where absolutely necessary after issuing advance public advisories through media and digital platforms. He also recommended using alternative routes for VVIP convoys and improving coordination between traffic police and city administration. Prioritizing uninterrupted movement for ambulances, school transport, and emergency services was also emphasized.
Shakoor remarked that public convenience must remain a central priority in the megacity already burdened by long commuting hours and transportation challenges. He acknowledged that citizens fully respect state institutions and security requirements, but governance systems should also reflect sensitivity toward the hardships faced by ordinary people.
He expressed hope that the relevant authorities will take practical steps to reduce unnecessary disruptions and ensure a balance between security protocols and the daily rights of the public.