Rickshaws banned on 25 major roads in Karachi to alleviate traffic congestion

Besides Shahrah-e-Faisal, Shahrah-e-Quaideen and Korangi Road, areas surrounding commercial districts also included

KARACHI:

In a move aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and improving the flow of vehicles in Karachi, the city administration has issued a notification banning the operation of three and five-seater rickshaws on 25 major roads.

The two-month ban will be in effect until February 21, 2026, as part of efforts to address the growing traffic hazards in the city’s busiest areas.

The notification, issued by Commissioner of Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, was prompted by recommendations from the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Traffic.

The decision follows concerns raised over the increasing number of rickshaws contributing to the traffic mess in the city’s densely populated and high-traffic zones. The measure is being enforced under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.P.C.), with immediate effect.

The 25 roads impacted by the ban include prominent thoroughfares such as Shahrah-e-Faisal, Shahrah-e-Quaideen, Korangi Road, and several key areas surrounding the city’s bustling markets and commercial districts. The roads are vital to the city’s traffic infrastructure, and authorities hope the restriction will reduce congestion and improve safety for all road users.

Under the new rules, the traffic police are empowered to enforce the ban, and violations of Section 188 of Cr.P.C. will lead to legal consequences. In addition to controlling rickshaw movement, the ban aims to streamline traffic flow on roads that experience the highest levels of congestion during peak hours.

"In pursuance of Section 195 (i) (a) Cr.PC, the Station House Officers (SHOs) of concerned police stations are hereby authorised to register complaints under Section 188 PPC in writing against the violation of Section 144 Cr.PC," the notification read.

The commissioner stated that these steps are essential to mitigate traffic risks and ensure smooth flow of traffic across the city. The city’s law enforcement agencies will closely monitor the roads and impose fines or penalties as needed to maintain order. This is part of a broader traffic management strategy to reduce delays and improve road safety in Karachi.