KARACHI:
Karachi’s Jamali Bridge on the M9 motorway has tragically become synonymous with death, crime and negligence. What should serve as a crucial link for commuters has instead turned into a perilous zone where lives are constantly at risk. From rampant street crimes to fatal accidents, the bridge has evolved into a symbol of lawlessness, exposing the inefficiency and lack of preparedness of law enforcement agencies in District East, particularly the Site Super Highway police station.
Despite repeated incidents of armed robberies, murders and violent encounters, authorities have failed to implement effective countermeasures, leaving citizens in a perpetual state of fear. The horrifying reality is that even the slightest resistance to a robbery can result in a loss of life, as criminals act with impunity, knowing full well that immediate consequences are rare.
The recent tragedy, which occurred a couple of weeks ago, involving a colleague from the University of Karachi who became an unintended victim of crossfire between dacoits and police, serves as a painful reminder of this deep-rooted crisis. Innocent civilians are caught in the crosshairs of unchecked crime, paying the ultimate price for the failure of governance and security
Beyond violent crime, the bridge is also plagued by another silent killer — poor infrastructure and reckless driving. A devastating dumper accident just a few months ago claimed the lives of a friend and his wife, highlighting the dire mismanagement of Karachi’s road safety and traffic regulations. Broken roads, inadequate traffic control, unregulated heavy vehicles and the absence of proper vehicle inspections continue to endanger lives, turning a critical transport route into a death trap.
This ongoing crisis demands urgent and decisive action. Strengthening police presence, installing surveillance cameras, enforcing strict traffic regulations and improving infrastructure must become immediate priorities. Karachi’s residents deserve safe roads and secure passage, not a constant battle for survival every time they cross Jamali Bridge. If these pressing concerns remain unaddressed, the bridge will continue to serve as a grim testament to institutional failure, rather than a reliable passage for the people of this city.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
