Avoid These Routes: Karachi Traffic Disrupted by IDEAS 2024
KARACHI: On the second day of the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024, the Karachi Traffic Police have implemented strict traffic restrictions and diversions around the Expo Centre to manage the ongoing event.
These measures, which will continue until November 22, are designed to maintain smooth traffic flow and enhance security as the exhibition, expected to draw numerous international delegates, unfolds.
From 7 am to 7 pm daily, several roads surrounding the National Stadium and Expo Centre will be closed to regular traffic:
National Stadium Flyover: Completely closed for all traffic.
Stadium Road: The stretch from Agha Khan University Hospital to Hassan Square (left side) and from Stadium Signal to Hassan Square will remain closed.
Sharea Faisal to Karsaz Road: Heavy and commercial vehicles are prohibited from entering.
Drigh Road: Heavy and commercial vehicles must use Sharea Faisal via Drigh Road.
Millennium Mall to Stadium Road: Restrictions on heavy and commercial vehicles entering Stadium Road from Millennium Mall.
NIPA to Hassan Square: No heavy and commercial traffic allowed.
Jail Chowrangi to Hassan Square: No heavy and commercial vehicles allowed.
Alternate Routes for Heavy Traffic: Commercial vehicles should use Shaheed-e-Millat Road or Teen Hatti Road.
Traffic Diversions: Vehicles will be directed towards PPP Chowrangi and Shaheed-e-Millat Road.
Parking Advisory: The public is urged not to park vehicles or motorcycles on service or main roads near the event area.
For assistance, citizens can contact the Traffic Police Helpline at 1915 or stay updated via WhatsApp at 03059266907, Facebook, or FM Radio 88.6.
In addition to traffic measures, extra police personnel, including Special Security Unit (SSU) commandos, have been deployed around Karachi airport and its surroundings. Sindh police chief Ghulam Nabi Memon is overseeing the security arrangements, with ongoing discussions about potentially declaring these areas a “Red Zone.”
IDEAS 2024, expected to draw a large number of visitors including international delegates, necessitates these traffic and security measures to ensure a smooth and successful event. The public’s cooperation is essential to minimize disruptions during this period.