Commuters in Karachi faced hours-long traffic gridlock around the Sindh Governor House on Tuesday, as heightened security measures were in place for the arrival of the Bohra community leader.

The lengthy traffic jam caused major disruptions for residents and travellers trying to navigate the area. Roads leading to and from the Governor House, including Ziauddin Ahmed Road towards the PIDC Chowk and State Life Building, were completely clogged.

In response to the situation, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah intervened and directed the local administration, district authorities, and traffic police to take steps to alleviate the congestion and reopen the roads for the free flow of vehicles.

The CM Secretariat was also instructed to be informed once the roads had been cleared and normal traffic conditions restored.

The severe gridlock highlighted the need for improved traffic management in Karachi, especially during events or VIP movements that require enhanced security measures in sensitive areas of the city.

Later in the day, Ziauddin Ahmed Road, Deen Muhammad Wafai Road, and Sarwar Shaheed Road were all closed to traffic.

Traffic was reported to be moving slowly in several important areas, including II Chundrigar, Shaheen Chowk, Khajoor Chowk, Ziauddin Ahmed Road, Aiwan-i-Sadar Road, and PIDC Chowk, as well as their surrounding neighborhoods.

The Karachi Traffic Police said they were diverting vehicles through alternative routes to manage the situation.

The road closures were particularly impactful given the strategic locations of the Sindh Governor House, which is situated on Aiwan-i-Sadar Road, and the Chief Minister House, which is located on Ziauddin Ahmed Road.

More to follow…