Section 144 imposed in Karachi until Sept 30, gatherings of over five banned

KARACHI: Authorities have imposed Section 144 in Karachi, restricting public gatherings of more than five people until September 30.

The restriction was announced through an order issued by Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi on September 24, following concerns raised by the police.

According to the notification, protests, rallies, sit-ins and demonstrations on major roads and intersections have been causing traffic disruptions and raising security concerns. The authorities also said such blockages could affect emergency services and access to hospitals.

The notification warned that large gatherings could disrupt routine civic and commercial activities, create traffic congestion and potentially affect the city’s law-and-order situation.

Authorities said the restrictions were necessary as a preventive measure to maintain public safety, protect lives and property, and ensure the smooth movement of citizens and essential services.

Under the order, organising, facilitating or participating in protests, demonstrations, rallies, processions, sit-ins or other gatherings involving more than five people is prohibited in Karachi from September 24 to 30.

Similar restrictions have also been imposed in Sukkur and Hyderabad until September 29, while other areas of the country have introduced comparable measures ahead of the PTI’s planned September 27 protest.