Category: 1. Pakistan

  • Imran ‘conspired, abetted’ May 9 violence: LHC – Newspaper

    Imran ‘conspired, abetted’ May 9 violence: LHC – Newspaper

    • Two-judge bench says prosecution’s evidence shows PTI founder played a role in violent attacks
    • Ex-PM’s refusal to submit to polygraph tests ‘hindered investigation’

    LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that the PTI founder, Imran Khan, was involved in the conspiracy and abetment of violent attacks on May 9, 2023.

    In a detailed verdict, a two-judge bench noted that the prosecution has evidence that reflected Mr Khan’s role in the violence that broke out following his arrest in Islamabad.

    The argument by Mr Khan’s counsel that he was in jail when the violent attacks took place on May 9 “is of no help to him,” ruled Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi and Tariq Mahmood Bajwa, who had dismissed the PTI founder’s bail application on June 24.

    Mr Khan had sought bail in eight cases of riots, including the attack on the Lahore Corps Commander’s House.

    In its detailed verdict, the bench reproduced the statements of two police officials and prosecution witnesses, who claimed to have secretly attended PTI’s meetings wherein the party’s founder allegedly gave instructions to other leaders to attack military installations in case of his imminent arrest from the Islamabad High Court.

    The meetings were held at a rest area of Chakri, Rawalpindi, on May 4 and at Zaman Park residence of Imran Khan on May 7-9, 2023.

    The bench observed that the witnesses’ statements cannot be termed belated.

    The bench held the statements “prima facie reflect the conspiracy and abetment” for the offences committed on May 9 were perpetrated by Mr Khan.

    His role in the violence attracted Sections 120-B (punishment for criminal conspiracy) and 121-A (conspiracy to commit offence of waging or attempting to wage war against the country) of the Pakistan Penal Code.

    “We have also noticed that the effect of the petitioner’s criminal conspiracy/abetment and the words uttered by him resulted in loss of lives and the state property,” the bench observed adding the case of Mr Khan, being PTI’s leader, was “distinguishable” from the cases of those who have been granted bail by different courts.

    The bench noted that the prosecution has audio and video evidence, which required forensic analysis.

    However, despite successive efforts by the investigating officer, Mr Khan refused polygraph and photogrammetric tests, which hindered the investigation and reflected his “evasive conduct”.

    Based on these observations, the judges stated, “We are not inclined to grant post arrest bail to the petitioner and being so, this petition is dismissed.”

    The cases against Mr Khan pertained to attacks on Askari Tower at Liberty Chowk, offices of PML-N in Model Town, Shadman police station and setting fire to police vehicles near the corps commander’s house and violence at Sherpao Bridge.

    Published in Dawn, July 4th, 2025

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  • NDMA issues monsoon alert from 6th – Pakistan

    NDMA issues monsoon alert from 6th – Pakistan

    • Flash flood risk in northern areas from July 7-12
    • Heavy rain forecast across all provinces, GB and AJK
    • Second monsoon spell expected to affect most Punjab districts
    • PDMA Balochistan warns of flash floods in 20 districts
    • Tourists advised to avoid high-risk areas; citizens urged to stay indoors

    RAWALPINDI / LAHORE / QUETTA: The National Emer­gencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disa­ster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued impact-based weather alerts ahead of predicted monsoon activity and a strong westerly wave expected to affect multiple regions of the country from July 6 to 10. Flash flood risks are also anticipated in northern areas from July 7 to 12.

    Isolated rain and thunderstorms are expected in Islamabad and across Punjab, including Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, Sargodha, Khushab, Gujran­wala, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Lahore, Kasur and Okara from July 6 to 10.

    Widespread moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast across northern and central Punjab, while southern districts such as Multan, Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Dera Ghazi Khan may receive low to moderate showers.

    In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in Dir, Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, Battagram, Swabi, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mala­kand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Haripur, Bannu and Kohat.

    Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir will likely experience moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly during evening and night hours. Flash flood threats persist in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ghanche, Shigar, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli and Bagh.

    The expected weather conditions could result in flash flooding in streams and nullahs, landslides, road closures and disruptions to power and communication lines.

    In Sindh, isolated to moderate rainfall is expected in Sukkur, Nawabshah, Kash­more, Hyderabad, Karachi, Thar­parkar, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Sanghar, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Thatta, Badin and Mithi. Heavier rainfall is likely in Ghotki, Khairpur, Shikarpur, Larkana, Jacob­abad and Dadu, potentially leading to urban flooding, traffic congestion and infrastructure damage.

    Scattered to heavy rainfall is also forecast in Balochistan, including Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Kalat, Khuzdar, Awaran, Bar­khan, Jaffarabad, Kohlu, Sibi, Dera Bugti, Loralai, Lasbela and Naseerabad. Risks include waterlogging, traffic disruption and structural damage from strong winds and lightning.

    The NDMA has urged the public to adopt precautionary measures, including avoiding unnecessary travel, staying indoors during severe weather and securing loose items and vehicles. Tourists are strongly advised against visiting high-altitude or flood-prone areas during the forecast period.

    Local authorities have been directed to ensure the readiness of response teams, drainage clearance and public awa­re­ness campaigns. Motorists have been warned to avoid driving through flooded roads and underpasses. Emergency services remain on high alert for potential rescue and evacuation operations.

    The NDMA asked citizens to monitor its advisories and use the ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ app for real-time weather updates and safety information.

    Punjab on high alert

    The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued its own alert ahead of expected monsoon rains from July 5 to 10, warning of urban flooding and rising river levels.

    It said the second monsoon spell is expected to affect most districts, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal and Faisalabad. Thunderstorms with heavy downpours are predicted in Okara, Kasur, Khushab, Sargodha, Bhakkar, Mianwali and southern districts such as Bahawalpur, Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan.

    PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned of potential flooding in hill torrents and rain drains from July 7 onwards. Urban flooding may also impact northern and central Punjab.

    Departments including the Water and Sanitation Agency, Rescue 1122, health, irrigation and local government have been directed to remain on high alert. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during storms, avoid travel and keep children away from waterlogged areas and electrical hazards.

    PDMA’s recent rainfall data shows Jhelum recorded the highest precipitation at 31 millimetres in the past 24 hours, followed by Mangla (29mm) and Attock (14mm), with minimal rainfall in Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Sialkot and Multan.

    New monsoon spell in Balochistan

    The PDMA Balochistan has also issued a weather alert for a fresh monsoon spell expected to hit 20 districts from July 4 to 8 July.

    Heavy downpours are forecast in Sherani, Zhob, Ziarat, Musakhail, Duki, Loralai, Harnai, Sibi, Barkhan, Nasirabad, Usta Muhammad, Kalat, Lasbela, Surab, Khuzdar, Awaran, Sohbatpur, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti and Kohlu, with flash floods likely in seasonal streams and rivers.

    Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and residents are urged to stay away from dams and picnic spots. Deputy commissioners have been instructed to monitor the situation closely and deploy heavy machinery on key roads to maintain access.

    PDMA district teams have been ordered to prepare for rescue and relief operations in the event of any damage caused by the rains.

    Published in Dawn, July 4th, 2025

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  • Imran ‘found linked’ to May 9: LHC

    Imran ‘found linked’ to May 9: LHC


    LAHORE:

    The Lahore High Court (LHC) has observed while referring to the testimonies of two police officials that former prime minister Imran Khan has been found involved in a conspiracy hatched for the violent events that occurred on May 9, 2023.

    An LHC division bench headed by Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi issued the detailed order regarding the dismissal of Khan’s post-arrest bail applications recently.

    The bench had dismissed the bail applications in eight first information reports (FIRs) registered against the former PM in connection with the May 9 riots.

    Inspector Ismat Kamal and Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Hassan Afzal had in their statements termed Imran Khan the mastermind of the incidents that had occurred on May 9.

    They said that in meetings held on May 4, 2023, at the Chakri Rest Area in Rawalpindi, and on May 7 and 9 in Lahore, Khan had given directions to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership to attack military and sate installations in addition to police officials to build pressure in case he was arrested.

    The officials stated that the leader had said that no one should go home until his release. They said the party leadership had termed Imran their red line and said they would jam the country by inciting the public if he was arrested.

    The court observed that the role attributed to the petitioner, as evident from the reproduced statements, attracts the provisions of Section 120-B and Section 121-A of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), which stood applied in the case. The reproduced statements of Inspector Ismat Kamal and ASI Hassan Afzal prima facie reflect that a conspiracy and abetment related to the offences committed on May 9 were perpetrated by the petitioner in different meetings, it observed.

    Meanwhile, an anti-terrorism court summoned more prosecution witnesses on July 10 in a case registered against PTI leaders regarding the May 9 riots after the arrest of the party’s founding chairman.

    The ATC judge recorded the statements of five prosecution witnesses in the case.

    Sarwar Road police had registered the case against the leaders over disturbing law and order, creating chaos, arson and inciting the public after the arrest.

    The ATC extended the bail hearing till July 8 of Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Umar Sarfraz Cheema and other leaders in cases registered against in connection with the riots. In another case of setting ablaze vehicles outside Jinnah House, the judge fixed July 10 for further proceedings.

    Defamation case

    A district court reserved its decision on Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif’s application for making a legal notice part of the record and to record secondary evidence in a defamation suit against Imran Khan.

    The district court judge was hearing the PM’s defamation suit filed against the PTI founder, seeking Rs10 billion in compensation over an accusation of offering him bribe to withdraw the Panama Papers case.

    The PTI counsel opposed the application, arguing that the legal notice was not signed by the petitioner and no secondary evidence could be recorded at this stage.

    The petitioner’s counsel argued that suit had been filed after fulfilling legal formalities and the notice had been sent. He requested the court to allow secondary evidence.

    After hearing arguments from both sides, the judge reserved the decision, which is likely to be announced by July 10.

    On June 2, the prime minister had replied to the queries of the counsel representing the PTI founding chairman during cross-examination.

    The queries revolved around PM Shehbaz Sharif’s affidavit, including its content, institution, stamps, attestation and other aspects of the case. The PM had appeared through video link.

    He had admitted that his name had been neither mentioned in the anchorperson’s questions nor in the replies given by the respondent, but asserted that it was clear that the baseless accusations were aimed at him.

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  • Gandapur orders probe into Swat river tragedy

    Gandapur orders probe into Swat river tragedy


    PESHAWAR:

    Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has announced that a high-level committee has been formed to investigate the recent Swat tragedy, in which 14 people drowned in the Swat River. Speaking to the media after a court appearance at the Peshawar High Court, the chief minister said that anyone found negligent in the incident will not be spared.

    “The tragedy in the Swat River is extremely unfortunate. A committee has been constituted to probe the incident and is actively working. Those responsible for negligence or carelessness will be held accountable once the committee presents its report,” Gandapur stated.

    He added that an indiscriminate anti-encroachment operation is underway across the province, particularly along the banks of the Swat River. “No one is above the law—illegal structures, no matter who they belong to, will be demolished,” he asserted.

    Referring to Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, the chief minister launched a scathing attack, saying, “He can’t even win a councillor’s seat … how can he overthrow our government?”

    The chief minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to removing encroachments without any discrimination and said that similar operations would be launched wherever illegal constructions are found in the province.

    Meanwhile, a high-level delegation of the Polio Oversight Board (POB), led by Dr Christopher Elias, called on Chief Minister Gandapur in Islamabad to review and reinforce anti-polio efforts in the province.

    The delegation included representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Rotary International, and other global partner organizations. Also present were Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication Ayesha Farooq, and senior officials from the National and Provincial Emergency Operation Centers.

    During the meeting, the participants reviewed the province’s ongoing polio eradication efforts and agreed on further streamlining and strengthening strategies to eliminate the poliovirus from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

    Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the continued support of international partners and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to eradicating polio. “The fight against polio is not just a provincial issue but a national and global responsibility,” he said.

    He noted that the provincial government is taking special measures to bolster the immunization program and has begun customizing anti-polio campaigns to fit the unique needs of each district. “Our strategy now involves local solutions to local challenges,” he said.

    To enhance the outreach and acceptance of polio campaigns, Gandapur said elected representatives and religious scholars are being actively involved. He urged local leaders and clerics to help dispel misconceptions and boost public trust in vaccination efforts.

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  • Chlidren among three injured in Lahore lion attack – ARY News

    1. Chlidren among three injured in Lahore lion attack  ARY News
    2. Three land in hospital after being mauled by runaway lion  Dunya News
    3. Lion attack in Lahore leaves three injured  24 News HD
    4. Pet Lion Goes on Rampage in Lahore [Video]  ProPakistani
    5. Lion attack in Lahore leaves two children critically injured  nation.com.pk

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  • Pakistan advancing toward vision 2047 with major reforms in higher education: Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed

    Pakistan advancing toward vision 2047 with major reforms in higher education: Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed

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    ISLAMABAD, Jul 03 (APP): Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, has reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s higher education sector under Vision 2047, with a strong focus on accessibility, technology integration, and institutional development.

    Speaking to the media, Dr. Ahmed stated that the government aims to ensure modern educational facilities for 1.5 million youth. Under the P-10 project, the top ten universities in the country will be selected for targeted quality enhancement. In the first phase, 100 smart classrooms have already been established, while 200 more are under construction.

    Highlighting the significant progress since the formation of HEC in 2001, he noted that the number of universities has grown from 59 to 370 (both public and private), and the student population has increased from under 3.5 million to over 8.5 million. Yet, he stressed that this number is still insufficient given Pakistan’s growing youth population. “Our target is to expand access and capacity further, especially in underserved regions,” he said.

    One of the most remarkable statistics he shared was that approximately 48% of university students in Pakistan are female, a figure he called “a surprise to the world” and a testament to the country’s evolving education landscape.

    Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of technology in education. Under the High-Performance Computing (HPC) initiative and cloud computing, students can now attend classes remotely, and teachers can deliver lectures from home a shift that ensures academic continuity during emergencies. He added that the reliance on expensive computing infrastructure is being reduced, making education more accessible.

    Despite the progress, challenges remain. Only 28% of university faculty hold PhDs, up from a previous 24%, and efforts are underway to increase this ratio. Over 6,000 students have been sent abroad on scholarships, reflecting the country’s focus on building a skilled academic workforce.

    He also acknowledged resistance from some Vice Chancellors regarding the implementation of the Higher Education Data Repository (HEDR), a system meant to improve digital governance in higher education.

    The Chairman stressed that academic-industry linkages are being promoted, with two universities recently recognized internationally for producing globally competitive graduates. Meanwhile, the $400 million World Bank-funded Higher Education Development Project (HEDP) is supporting faculty development, research, innovation, infrastructure upgrades, and strengthening the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE).

    Dr. Ahmed concluded by stating that the HEC is not only enhancing higher education in urban centers but is also extending resources to backward regions to ensure equal opportunities for all. He emphasized that instead of merely increasing the number of institutions, the focus will remain on improving the quality and governance of existing universities.

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  • NDMA issues new alert for heavy rain, storms across country

    NDMA issues new alert for heavy rain, storms across country

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    ISLAMABAD:

    The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide weather alert, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and the possibility of flooding across Pakistan from July 6 to July 10.

    According to the NDMA, cities in provinces will experience significant weather disturbances. Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, Sargodha, Khushab, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Lahore, Kasur, and Okara are expected to see rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms.

    In southern Punjab, heavy winds with rain are predicted in Multan, Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Dera Ghazi Khan.

    Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is also at risk, with regions like Dera, Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, Battagram, Swabi, Nowshera, Charsadda, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Haripur, Bannu, and Kohat likely to see thunderstorms and heavy rain.

    In the northern areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, heavy rainfall is anticipated in Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ganche, Shigar, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli, and Bagh, with a high risk of flooding in these regions.

    Meanwhile, the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan are not exempt from adverse weather conditions. Cities such as Sukkur, Nawabshah, Kashmore, Hyderabad, Karachi, Tharparkar, Mirpur Khas, Umerkot, Sanghar, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Thatta, Badin, Mithi, Ghotki, Khairpur, Shikarpur, Larkana, Jacobabad, and Dadu are expected to receive heavy rain, with the urban flooding expected.

    In Balochistan, areas like Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Kalat, Khuzdar, Awaran, Barkhan, Jafarabad, Kohlu, Sibi, Dera Bugti, Loralai, Lasbela, and Naseerabad are on alert for rainfall.

    Read More: Flash floods, heavy rain kill 64 in a week

    The NDMA has cautioned the public to stay away from weak structures, brick walls, electric poles, and billboards during storms and heavy winds, as they pose a significant risk.

    It also warned that visibility could be reduced, leading to potential accidents. Flash floods may occur, especially in local streams, so the public is advised to exercise caution.

    “Authorities have been instructed to ensure preparedness for any emergency situations,” an NDMA spokesperson said. “Citizens are encouraged to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App for updates and guidance on the weather conditions and potential hazards.”

    As Pakistan braces for severe weather, the NDMA is urging citizens to stay informed and follow safety guidelines to minimise the risk of casualties and damage from storms, flooding, and other weather-related hazards.

    Also Read: Construction along Swat River diverted water flow, leading tourists into danger: report

    Flash floods and heavy rain have killed 64 people and injured 117 in a week across the country, a government agency said on Wednesday.

    The highest toll was in K-P, with 23 dead including 10 children, the National Disaster Management Authority said. Fourteen of the victims were swept away in a flash flood in the Swat Valley last week, local media reported.

    Flash floods and homes collapsing in heavy rain killed 21 others in the eastern province of Punjab, including 11 children, the authority said. In Sindh, 15 were killed, while five people died in southwestern Balochistan.

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  • Czech mountaineer dies while summiting Nanga Parbat

    Czech mountaineer dies while summiting Nanga Parbat



    First woman climber from the Czech Republic Kolouchova Klara reportedly dies during expedition of Nanga Parbat. — Reporter

    CHILAS: Kolouchova Klara, a climber from the Czech Republic, lost her life while summiting Nanga Parbat after falling from a height between Camp 1 and 2, according to a Diamer official.

    Klara Kolouchova, 46, was part of a seven-member expedition team, including her husband, that had arrived in Pakistan on June 15 and reached base camp two days later.

    Diamer Additional Deputy Commissioner Nizamuddin said Klara teammates confirmed her death after returning to base camp, but her body remains at the fall site.

    He said efforts are underway to confirm the exact spot where the mountaineer fell before starting a recovery operation.

    According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the incident occurred around 4am local time.

    Rescue officials and high-altitude porters have been dispatched to the area, though recovery efforts are complicated by the mountain’s extreme terrain.

    Karrar Haidri, vice president of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, expressed deep sorrow over the Czech climber’s death, calling her an “inspiration to climbers worldwide”.

    “We are devastated by the loss of Klára Kolouchova, an extraordinary mountaineer who had conquered some of the world’s highest peaks,” Haidri said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and the global climbing community during this painful time.”

    Haidri confirmed that the Alpine Club was coordinating with local authorities to assist in recovery efforts.

    Kolouchová gained international recognition as the first Czech woman to summit both Everest and K2, two of the world’s tallest peaks.

    Her attempt on Nanga Parbat — Pakistan’s second-highest mountain at 8,125 meters — was part of her quest to climb all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks.

    Nanga Parbat is the third-most dangerous 8,000-meter peak, with a death rate of around 22% of climbers. The “Killer Mountain” — as it is titled — has claimed more than 60 lives.

    It is one of the most prominent peaks of the Himalayas range after Mount Everest. Nanga Parbat has a big vertical relief over the local terrain in almost all directions.

    Its south ‘Rupal face’ is referred to as the highest mountain face in the world, which rises 4,600m (about 15,090 ft) above sea level. It’s North ‘Rakhiot Flank’ is one of the 10 greatest elevation gains in such a short distance on earth. It rises 7,000m (about 23,000 ft) above sea level.

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  • Punjab moves toward major local Government reforms ahead of Elections

    Punjab moves toward major local Government reforms ahead of Elections

    Preparations for local government elections in Punjab are progressing as key amendments to the proposed local government law near finalisation.

    A major reform under consideration is the replacement of Deputy Commissioners with elected public representatives as heads of district-level authorities, a move aimed at enhancing democratic governance and accountability.

    Sources indicate that the revised draft law also includes provisions for the direct election of women and minority representatives to ensure more inclusive and effective representation.

    These proposals were discussed during a recent session of the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Local Government, chaired by Pir Ashraf Rasool.

    Felbous Christopher, a ruling party MPA and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Minority Affairs, strongly advocated for the direct election of minority representatives in local bodies. He argued that this change would foster authentic leadership and enable more efficient resolution of community issues.

    The committee approved the proposal by a majority vote.

    The draft local government bill had been sent to the committee for review in light of the approaching elections. Christopher noted that a broad consensus already exists within the assembly regarding direct elections for minority seats.

    The committee is expected to present its final report on the proposed legislation in its upcoming meeting for formal approval.


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  • Traffic plan unveiled, MA Jinnah road to be closed for security measures

    Traffic plan unveiled, MA Jinnah road to be closed for security measures

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    KARACHI:

    Almost 50,000 police personnel will be deployed for the security of Muharram processions in Sindh, said Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon addressing a press conference on Thursday.

    The tense geopolitical situation of the region compounded by collaboration of anti-state elements with the hostile neighbour warrants heightened security for the mass gatherings of Muharram.

    Sharjeel assured that the Sindh government has made foolproof security arrangements for Muharram.

    Most important was the unity of Ummah to defeat the designs of enemies of the country to use Muharram days to fan sectarian hatred and violence.

    The senior minister stated that the Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah held meetings with scholars from various schools of thought to assure harmony and reviewed the security plan for gatherings and processions.

    Sharjeel told the media that 14,546 police personnel would be deployed for gatherings and 35,116 for Muharram processions, with over 14,000 additional personnel assigned to ensure the security of all events.

    He announced that a total of 49,662 police personnel will be deployed across Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, and Shaheed Benazirabad from the 8th to 10th of Muharram to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain peace.

    He emphasised that while the Sindh government tolerates criticism, it will not allow anyone to dictate its policies. He added that the government had also proposed allocating a large designated area for protests to ensure that public life remains unaffected.

    Traffic plan for three days of Muharram

    The Traffic Police have announced a special traffic plan for 8th, 9th, and 10th of Muharram. Under the plan, MA Jinnah Road will remain closed from Guru Mandir to Tower on all three days due to security concerns. The main Muharram processions will begin from Nishtar Park and conclude at Hussainia Iranian Imambargah, passing through its designated routes. Vehicles bearing special stickers issued for the procession will be allowed to join.

    As per the announced plan for traffic, commuters from Nazimabad can travel through Lasbela Chowk via Nishtar Road and Garden. Those coming from Liaquatabad can turn right at Teen Hatti towards Lasbela Chowk or to left towards Central Jail and Martin Road.

    Motorists coming from Hassan Square and heading to the PP Chowrangi can use Kashmir Road under Jail Flyover, Society Light Signal, Sharah-e-Quaideen, and Nishtar Road via Teen Hatti and Lasbela Chowk.

    Commuters from Sharea Faisal towards Sharah-e-Quaideen and Noorani Kabab to Numaish can take a right turn at Society traffic light towards Kashmir Road. Those heading to Guru Mandir or MA Jinnah Road via Jail Gate or Jamshed Road can take Bahadur Yar Jang Road and pass through Soldier Bazaar. Similarly, those at Garden Zoo heading to MA Jinnah Road will be diverted via Anklesaria to either Gul Plaza or Coast Guard, near Holy Family Hospital.

    All heavy and commercial vehicles from Super Highway or Gulberg towards MA Jinnah Road will be diverted from Liaquatabad No10 to Nazimabad Chowrangi No2, and then proceed via Habib Bank Flyover, State Avenue Road, and Shershah to Mauripur. The same route will apply for return.

    Heavy traffic coming from National Highway will take Sharea Faisal or Rashid Minhas Road, Stadium Road, Sir Shah Suleman Road, Hassan Square, Liaquatabad No10, and Nazimabad Chowrangi No2 towards Mauripur, and will follow the same route back.

    The Traffic Police spokesperson clarified that no small or large vehicles will be allowed beyond Guru Mandir Chowk on the procession route. All such traffic will be diverted towards Bahadur Yar Jang Road and Soldier Bazaar. Vehicles with stickers will be allowed entry from Sharah-e-Quaideen via Society Light Signal.

    Participants arriving from Nazimabad may enter via Lasbela, Al-Bela, Garden Jamaat Khana, Soldier Bazaar No3 traffic light to Numaish. Those from Liaquatabad, Teen Hatti, Jehangir Road, Guru Mandir, Society signal, Gulistan-e-Johar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, University Road, Old Sabzi Mandi, Kashmir Road can also through Numaish.

    Vehicles distributing niaz or tabarruk will only be allowed entry into the procession from Tower near Memon Masjid. No vehicle will be permitted to park along the procession route.d

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