Main roads still plagued by encroachments

KARACHI:

Main roads in the city are once again plagued by encroachment, contradicting the Sindh chief minister's tall claims of clearing them. Severe traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, has become an uncontrollable nuisance. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is responsible for eliminating these encroachments but there seems no practical steps to do away with this menace.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah in the recent past issued orders that 15 major roads in the city should be cleared of all types of encroachments in the first phase.

University Road, one of the city's busiest thoroughfares, has become particularly troublesome, with the ongoing Red Line construction project causing untold misery. The slow pace of work raises questions 'when the project will be completed?'

Travelling between Jail Chowrangi and Safoora has become an excruciating experience for citizens. Besides the Red Line project, encroachments on this busy road has added a lot to the miseries of commuters.

Sir Shah Suleman Road, Pakistan Highway, Rashid Minhas Road, Korangi Road from Korangi Crossing to Landhi No. 1, Shah Faisal Colony Main Road, and Liaquatabad No. 10, are the most affected because of encroachments.

According to sources, the persistent encroachments on central and inner streets are allegedly fueled by a tussle between local authorities, police, and traffic police.