City rings in 2026 with grand celebrations

Fireworks light up the sky as thousands gather at Seaview; police enforce strict measures

KARACHI:

As the clock struck midnight on Wednesday, heralding the arrival of the year 2026, the streets of the metropolis came alive with the sights and sounds of exuberant celebrations. Fireworks illuminated the night sky, while the echoes of aerial firing resonated in several neighbourhoods of the city. A large number of citizens, particularly enthusiastic youth, gathered at the popular Seaview beach to mark the occasion.

With the stroke of midnight, the crowd erupted in joy, dancing to the rhythm of drums and exchanging warm New Year greetings. However, the celebrations were not without caution. In an effort to ensure public safety and order, police had implemented stringent security measures, especially in the lead-up to the New Year.

Authorities had launched an extensive awareness campaign urging the public to refrain from aerial firing, hooliganism, dangerous stunts like one-wheeling, and other illegal activities. Citizens were reminded that while celebrating was encouraged, any involvement in unlawful acts would be met with legal repercussions.

The top administrator, acting on the recommendation of the DIG South Zone, imposed a ban on several activities in District South. These measures included a prohibition on pillion riding, the display of weapons, aerial firing, and fireworks. Despite these precautions, large groups of revelers continued to make their way to Seaview, arriving on motorcycles and in cars, while families with women and children also joined in the festivities.

To ensure smooth traffic flow, the traffic police were deployed across key areas, maintaining visibility on the roads. Despite these efforts, some motorcycle-riding youths were spotted performing stunts on the busy roads and highways.

Meanwhile, in a bid to enhance security, Karachi police chief AIG Javed Alam Odho had issued directives for a comprehensive security operation throughout the city. Special patrolling, involving mobile vans and motorcycles, was carried out at the police station level. In District Central, drone cameras were employed to monitor aerial firing and identify those engaging in the dangerous activity.

A spectacular New Year celebration took place at the Governor House, with thousands of people, including women, children, and youth, attending the event. The festivities set a new record with the longest fireworks display ever witnessed in the city. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by national songs and spirited chants of "Pakistan Zindabad," which filled the atmosphere with patriotic fervor.

In a video address, Governor Kamran Tessori reflected on the achievements of the past year, describing 2025 as a period of military, diplomatic, and economic advancement for Pakistan. He highlighted the young cricket team's historic victory over India as a moment that brought immense joy to the nation, expressing confidence that the triumph would remain etched in the country's memory for years to come. Tessori also praised the people of Karachi and Sindh for their active participation in public events at the Governor House throughout the year. He expressed his gratitude to the citizens, noting that their enthusiasm had been a great source of encouragement. Looking ahead to 2026, he promised even grander events with a focus on public welfare and service.