Protests over heavy traffic accidents in Karachi turned violent on Tuesday.
The metropolis is experiencing severe unrest as citizens, frustrated with heavy traffic and accidents involving heavy vehicles, have taken matters into their own hands. This has led to multiple incidents of freight trucks and water tankers being set on fire.
On Tuesday morning enraged individuals set fire to two freight trucks in Landhi, however, no casualties were reported, but the cargo on the freight trucks was destroyed.
Another attempted arson at Al-Karam Square was thwarted by locals and police.
Police report that a truck was torched in Korangi No. 6.
Meanwhile, in Surjani Town’s Abdullah Mor, three masked motorcycle riders set a water tanker ablaze. The driver narrowly escaped by jumping out of the vehicle.
In Baldia Town, a pregnant woman lost her life, and her daughter was injured when a passenger bus collided with their motorcycle.
According to rescue officials, the accident occurred near Lucky Incline in Baldia Town, where a passenger coach struck a motorcycle carrying a family. The crash resulted in the death of the pregnant woman and injuries to her 8-year-old daughter, while the woman’s husband miraculously remained unharmed.
Rescue officials identified the deceased woman as 30-year-old Ayesha, wife of Faqir Muhammad, and the injured daughter as 8-year-old Maryam, daughter of Faqir Muhammad.
Transporters Protest, Block Entry Points After Trucks Torched in Karachi
Transporters also staged protests on major highways like the National Highway and Super Highway, blocking key entry points to Karachi.
The All Pakistan Transport Association (APTA) has organized protests at strategic locations such as Hub Toll Plaza and Super Highway. APTA claimed that their vehicles were being targeted in a conspiracy and demanded immediate compensation for damaged vehicles.
At a press conference, APTA press secretary Malik Ilyas and President Tariq Gujar condemned the attacks, alleging that lawless elements are responsible for setting vehicles on fire.
They criticized the Sindh government and governor for making inflammatory statements that could further escalate tensions.
Major roads including those leading to Port Qasim, Hub Check Post, and New Sabzi Mandi reportedly blocked due to protests. Traffic congestion at Port Qasim Chowrangi caused significant inconvenience for travellers entering Karachi.
Transporters urge the government to establish a structured standard operating procedure (SOP) for freight movement along designated routes and timings. They also demand compensation for burned vehicles.
Main National Highway at Port Qasim Chowrangi Closed in Both Directions for Traffic
The Dumper Association protested by blocking roads with dumpers against legal action and the damage caused by vehicles to the public within the city at National Highway at Port Qasim Chorangi leading to traffic blockage at around 15:30 local time.
Traffic coming from Thatta was being diverted from Steel Mill Chowrangi towards Mehran Highway. Meanwhile, the traffic leaving the city is being redirected from Shah Latif Bhains Colony towards Mehran Highway.
Water Tankers Suspended
The Water Tanker Association has suspended water supply services across the city following arson attacks, leaving Karachi facing a deepening water shortage as 1,500 tankers remain out of service.
Water Board Focal Person Shehbaz Bashir stated that water tankers have been halted due to public protests against traffic accidents.
He further mentioned that Karachi’s six hydrants supply water through 1,500 tankers daily. However, given the current situation, water tanker owners and staff are refusing to work out of fear.
Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjhar Orders Probe into Karachi Fire Incidents
Interior Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjhar has taken swift action following the torching of heavy vehicles in Karachi, including dumpers and tankers. He has sought a detailed report from the Additional IG Police to investigate the incidents.
Condemning the attacks, Lanjhar warned that unlawful acts will not be tolerated and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting citizens’ property. He also highlighted ongoing measures to curb traffic accidents, with high-level committees ensuring strict enforcement of traffic laws.
Emphasizing the role of law and order in societal progress, he urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and directed police to monitor troublemakers closely.
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