City's traffic restored by late night

KARACHI:

Police began removing containers and reopening road routes previously closed for traffic across various areas of the city late on Tuesday night.

The closures were initially imposed as part of security measures for Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

While commuters on some of the roads still grappled with lingering container obstructions, the traffic police had proactively organised alternative routes and announced diversion on print media, TV as well as social media.

The officials confirmed the continued closure of Club Road due to security protocols for the delegation. However, both lanes of Shahrae Faisal leading to the airport were accessible after the removal of containers late at night.

Moreover, all routes linked to Shahrae Faisal had been reinstated, along with the reopening of both tracks of MA Jinnah Road for traffic flow.

However, citizens highlighted the ongoing challenges, particularly the closure of the route to Gulistan-e-Jauhar near the Samama Shopping Mall at University Road, which persisted until 10:30pm.

This closure exacerbated congestion, causing lengthy vehicle queues. The police cited the closure as part of alternative arrangements, indicating it would only reopen upon clearance from higher authorities.

Earlier on Monday, the Karachi traffic police had announced the temporary closure of major roads, including Shahrae Faisal, from 3pm to 5pm for heightened security measures.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2024.