Several important roads across Karachi remained closed on Friday as authorities implemented strict traffic and security measures for Youm-e-Quds rallies. Traffic police issued a citywide advisory urging citizens to plan travel carefully and avoid affected routes. Officials explained that the closures aim to ensure public safety and maintain order during the religious gatherings expected to attract large crowds. Consequently, commuters have been advised to follow alternative routes and cooperate with traffic personnel deployed across the city.
According to the traffic police, a major Youm-e-Quds rally will take place after Friday prayers, beginning from Numaish Chowrangi and moving toward Aman Tower. Authorities expect thousands of participants to join the procession held annually to express solidarity with Palestinians. Therefore, several roads along and near the rally route have been temporarily closed to maintain security and allow smooth movement of participants throughout the event.
Read more : Karachi closes key artery amid heightened security
Meanwhile, key roads including the route from Boat Basin toward Jinnah Bridge and the stretch from PIDC to Jinnah Bridge on M.T. Khan Road remain closed in both directions. Traffic officials said these restrictions are necessary to prevent congestion and maintain secure movement around the rally route. As a result, commuters traveling toward central business districts and Clifton areas may experience delays and are encouraged to follow designated diversion routes.
Authorities have also introduced several alternative routes to ease traffic pressure across affected districts. Travelers from Teen Hatti toward Tower can use Gurumandar, Soldier Bazaar, Bahadur Yar Jung Road, and Holy Family Hospital routes. Similarly, commuters from Nazimabad heading toward Tower have been advised to travel through Lasbella, Nishtar Road, Ranchore Lines, and Civil Hospital to avoid blocked areas.
Read more : Govt to make Karachi Pakistan’s most developed city, says Memon
Furthermore, traffic moving from Boat Basin toward M.A. Jinnah Road will be redirected through U-turn points, while vehicles from PIDC toward Jinnah Bridge will be diverted to Khajoor Chowk. Officials confirmed that traffic police personnel will remain deployed along key intersections to guide motorists and manage traffic flow efficiently throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the Sindh government has declared March 13 a public holiday across the province to facilitate the observance of Al-Quds Day. Government offices, corporations, and local councils remained closed except essential services. Authorities said the main rally will start from Numaish Chowrangi around 2pm and conclude on M.A. Jinnah Road after evening prayers, marking solidarity with Palestinians and opposition to Israeli occupation.