Protests Over Water Shortage, Power Outages Paralyze Karachi Traffic

KARACHI – Massive protests erupted across Karachi on Wednesday, paralyzing major roads and creating hours-long traffic jams as residents demonstrated against prolonged water shortages and frequent power outages. The city’s law enforcement officials and traffic police struggled to manage the situation as roadblocks disrupted daily life.

Unrest Over Water Crisis and Power Shortages

Citizens took to the streets after ongoing construction for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system disrupted a crucial water pipeline on University Road near Old Sabzi Mandi. As a result, residents in several areas are expected to face severe water shortages until Friday. The power outages, coupled with a lack of water supply, have pushed people to their limits, prompting citywide protests.

According to Karachi Traffic Police (KTP) updates, multiple roads remained blocked as demonstrators staged sit-ins. The worst-hit areas included MA Jinnah Road, Arambagh, Eidgah Chowk, Tibet Centre, and Fresco Chowk. Commuters faced significant delays as alternative routes also became congested due to redirected traffic.

Traffic Chaos Across the City

The Karachi Traffic Police reported that protests occurred at several critical intersections, worsening the traffic situation. The affected locations included:

• Teen Hatti & Guru Mandir: Protesters blocked both tracks, causing severe congestion.
• Lyari & Liaquatabad: Residents took to the streets over power outages.
• Quaidabad & Dawood Chowrangi: Demonstrations over water shortages disrupted transportation.
• Jehangir Road & Bahadur Yar Jang Road: Both roads remained closed due to sit-ins.
• Garden & Landhi: Traffic movement was restricted due to roadblocks.

In response, traffic officials diverted vehicles to alternative routes, but slow movement persisted across major thoroughfares.

Authorities Call for Urgent Action

South Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Syed Asad Raza warned that the situation could worsen if immediate steps were not taken. “Water and power issues are civic problems that need resolution at the highest level. The police can only mediate with protestors and manage traffic,” he stated.

Newly appointed Traffic DIG Pir Mohammed Shah revealed that in the past two months alone, Karachi witnessed over 190 protests, primarily due to utility service failures. “On average, two to three protests occur daily, severely impacting traffic. The authorities must act swiftly to address these grievances,” he added.

Impact on Daily Life and Businesses

The protests not only disrupted commuters but also affected businesses and essential services. Many office workers, students, and emergency vehicles struggled to reach their destinations. Business owners reported significant losses due to delayed deliveries and reduced customer footfall.

Several affected residents voiced their frustration. “We have been living without water for days while the authorities do nothing. We have no choice but to protest,” said a protester from Landhi.

Government’s Response and Future Outlook

The Sindh Chief Secretary has acknowledged the severity of the crisis and announced measures to alleviate the problem, including:

• Accelerating BRT construction to minimize further disruptions.
• Ensuring prompt repairs to the damaged water pipeline.
• Addressing prolonged power outages with K-Electric and other authorities.
• Deploying additional traffic personnel to manage congestion.

While these measures aim to control the situation, the ongoing dissatisfaction among residents suggests that more protests may occur in the coming days.

Conclusion: A Call for Immediate Resolution

With Karachi’s infrastructure already under strain, the current water and power crisis demands urgent intervention. Unless authorities take decisive action, both the traffic chaos and public unrest will continue to escalate. Citizens, business owners, and law enforcement officials alike urge the government to address these recurring issues proactively.

For the latest updates on Karachi’s traffic and civic issues, stay tuned to our coverage. Read more about Karachi’s infrastructure challenges and how to manage urban traffic congestion.

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External Link: Sindh Government Official Website