Karachi Traffic Paralyzed as MWM Protests Enter Seventh Day
KARACHI: Sit-ins organized by the religious-political party Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) over the Parachinar crisis have continued for a seventh day, creating severe traffic disruptions across the city.
Despite government statements, road closures persist, causing significant inconvenience for residents. The disruptions have impacted businesses, wedding ceremonies, and led to incidents of missed flights and trains.
Two days ago, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the provincial government would intervene if public inconvenience escalated. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also criticized the protests, asserting they aim to paralyze daily life and disrupt businesses, which the state must address.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Shazia Marri suggested shifting the sit-ins to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa instead of Karachi. However, no measures have yet been taken to reopen blocked roads.
The MWM is staging sit-ins at 14 locations, including MA Jinnah Road and Numaish Chowrangi, which remain closed. Sections of Shahrah-e-Pakistan are blocked at Ayesha Manzil and Ancholi.
Other protest sites include one track of the National Highway near Malir Flyover, Golimar, Five Star Chowrangi, Powerhouse Chowrangi, Ahsanabad, and outside KDA Flats in Surjani.
Protests are also ongoing on Abul Hasan Ispahani Road near Abbas Town, University Road near Safari Park, Kamran Chowrangi, and Johar Mor in Gulistan-e-Jauhar.
Meanwhile, sit-ins at two points on Sharea Faisal, including Natha Khan Bridge and Malir 15, have been called off.
