Commuters face problems due to heightened security in city

Security was heightened in the city on Tuesday due to the visit of the president of Iran, butthe traffic diversion plan issued for the awareness of the public was implemented for longer hours, with several roads being closed and causing commuters difficulties in reaching their respective destinations.

According to observers, even though the law enforcement agencies (LEAs) had said roads would be closed from 3pm to 5pm, some of the roads were not reopened until 9pm. However, most of the roads in the red zones were closed, and a diversion plan had been issued for the public, while traffic sergeants were present at the diversion points to facilitate commuters.

Under the security plan, 3,847 police officials were on duty in the city. Moreover, 345 officials in District West and 300 in District South were deployed for security, while 1,500 traffic police officials and over 300 Special Branch officers were also deployed. Snipers were also deployed at sensitive locations.

Residents were also facilitated by the 15 police helpline and the 1915 traffic helpline in case of any emergency. The Sindh police tried to take all possible steps to perform its duties, according to officials.

They said Sindh police chief Ghulam Nabi Memon directed his department to make all security and traffic measures extraordinary at all levels for the arrival of the foreign dignitaries. Strict instructions were issued to the Karachi police to further improve security measures in the city, remain active and monitor for unusual activities. IGP Memon also ordered patrolling, picketing, tightening blockades, and conducting random snap checking. The enforcement of Section 144 and the ban on using drones was also ensured.

Officials said the Sindh police used all available resources to protect the lives and properties of the people, adding that safety of the residents was the top priority of the Karachi police. Earlier, as per the city traffic police plan, both tracks of Sharea Faisal were closed from 3pm to 5pm, and the road from the airport to PIDC was also closed. Moreover, Shahrah-e-Quaideen and Dr Ziauddin Ahmed Road was also closed for traffic from 3pm to 5pm.