Encroachment hazard

Road encroachment is probably the most significant factor contributing to traffic congestion in Karachi. Unauthorised vendors, stalls and illegal structures on sidewalks and roads reduce space available for vehicles, exacerbating traffic issues. Markets and shops expanding onto roads create bottlenecks in busy commercial areas. Pedestrian walkways are also often blocked by illegal vendors. The lack of organised parking leads to vehicles being parked on roadsides, further narrowing driving space.

The Sindh chief minister has recently formed a task force and once again directed the removal of encroachments and illegal parking from the city. Campaigns against encroachment in Karachi have seen mixed success over the years. After authorities remove illegal structures, vendors and businesses often return within weeks. Therefore, continuous monitoring and regular enforcement are essential to ensuring that areas cleared of encroachment remain free of illegal structures.

Dr Mohammad Saleem

Karachi