World Book Fair ends with record-breaking footfall

Overwhelming response, organisers said, was clear evidence that culture of reading remains alive, vibrant in Pakistan

KARACHI:

The five-day annual Karachi World Book Fair concluded at the Expo Centre on Sunday, breaking previous attendance records and drawing hundreds of thousands of book lovers from across the city.

On the final day, special discounts on books attracted a large number of visitors, further boosting participation. The overwhelming public response, organisers said, was clear evidence that the culture of reading remains alive and vibrant in Pakistan.

Chairman of the Pakistan Publishers and Booksellers Association Kamran Noorani and Convener of the Karachi World Book Fair Waqar Mateen termed the unprecedented interest and turnout highly encouraging. Speaking to the media on the last day of the fair, they said the event reflected the revival of reading habits and intellectual activity in the metropolis.

They noted that the fair had once again established itself as a major cultural event of Karachi, promoting knowledge, literature and learning in an era dominated by digital media.

Organisers said the enthusiastic response exceeded their expectations, especially at a time when digital platforms dominate information consumption.