In a major step to tackle worsening traffic congestion, Karachi traffic police have announced that Saddar Market will soon be converted into a fully pedestrian-only zone. The move is part of a broader strategy to ease traffic pressure across the city, particularly during the busy Ramadan season.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by the DIG Traffic. Officials focused on addressing long-standing parking mismanagement and traffic bottlenecks that intensify during peak shopping hours.
Key Measures Announced
Authorities outlined several immediate steps:
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Complete ban on private vehicles inside Saddar Market.
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Loading and unloading vehicles prohibited from entering the area between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
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Strict action against illegal parking across commercial zones.
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Activation and improvement of designated parking facilities to increase efficiency.
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Deployment of lifter officers equipped with body-worn cameras.
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Legal action against professional beggars operating at traffic signals.
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Removal of encroachments obstructing roads and footpaths.
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Additional traffic personnel to manage flow in congested areas.
Officials believe these measures will improve pedestrian mobility, reduce gridlock, and create a safer shopping environment.
Citywide Traffic Crisis Continues
Karachi’s traffic situation has steadily deteriorated as rapid urban expansion and infrastructure challenges overwhelm existing road networks. Many neighborhoods now resemble densely populated towns, adding to the strain on major arteries.
Severe congestion has recently been observed at:
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M. A. Jinnah Road
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I. I. Chundrigar Road
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Shahrah-e-Faisal
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Mauripur Road
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National Stadium Karachi
Heavy traffic has also been reported around Fawara Chowk, Zeb-un-Nisa Street, Metropole, Bolton Market, Tower, Defense, Qayyumabad KPT Bridge, FTC, Nursery, Baloch Colony, Hassan Square, Isa Nagri, Banaras Chowk, Habib Bank Chowrangi, Liaquatabad, Teen Hatti, and Jahangir Road.
Ongoing development work and damaged roads have further worsened travel times, with even short distances taking significantly longer during peak hours.
A Step Toward Sustainable Urban Mobility?
Urban planners view pedestrianization projects as an effective way to reclaim commercial areas from chaotic traffic conditions. If implemented effectively, the Saddar initiative could serve as a model for other busy markets in Karachi.
Residents, however, will be watching closely to see whether enforcement remains consistent and whether alternative parking solutions are sufficient to handle displaced vehicles.
The coming weeks will determine whether this ambitious traffic reform brings lasting relief to one of Karachi’s busiest commercial hubs.
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