Introduction
Karachi’s police chief, Additional Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Javed Alam Odho, has announced plans to clear the city’s roads of protesters by tonight. The ongoing sit-ins by the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) have entered their seventh day, causing significant disruptions across Karachi.
AIGP Javed Alam Odho’s Statement
Firm Action Promised
AIGP Odho stated that the police have received clear instructions to clear the roads by evening. He warned that any resistance would be dealt with firmly according to the law. “We are giving a clear message that we have received instructions to clear the roads by this evening,” Odho said. “Those who refuse to vacate the roads will be removed according to the law.”
Efforts to Resolve the Situation
He further mentioned that discussions with the protesters were ongoing, and efforts were being made to remove them from the streets before Maghrib prayers.
Impact of the Protests
Traffic Disruptions
The MWM protests have led to severe traffic disruptions, affecting 13 key locations in the city, including MA Jinnah Road, Numaish Chowrangi, Shahrah-e-Pakistan, and areas near Malir Flyover. Businesses, weddings, and travel plans have been heavily impacted, with incidents of missed flights and train schedules continuing.
Public Response
Residents of Karachi have expressed their frustration over the ongoing protests. Despite earlier assurances from government officials, the protests persist, causing significant inconvenience to daily life.
Government’s Stance
Sindh Chief Minister’s Warning
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had previously indicated that the provincial government would intervene if public inconvenience escalated. He emphasized that it was the state’s responsibility to ensure the smooth functioning of daily life in Karachi.
Karachi Mayor’s Criticism
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also criticized the protests, stating that the aim seemed to be to paralyze daily life. He stressed the importance of preventing such disruptions to maintain order in the city.
Current Status of the Protests
Continued Disruptions
While sit-ins at two points on Sharea Faisal were called off, protests continue at several other locations, including Five Star Chowrangi, Powerhouse Chowrangi, and University Road. The persistence of these protests has made it difficult for the city to return to normalcy.
FAQs
1. What is the reason behind the MWM protests in Karachi?
- The MWM protests are in response to the Parachinar crisis.
2. How long have the MWM protests been going on?
- The protests have entered their seventh day.
3. What areas in Karachi are most affected by the protests?
- Key locations include MA Jinnah Road, Numaish Chowrangi, Shahrah-e-Pakistan, and areas near Malir Flyover.
4. What measures are being taken by the Karachi police to clear the roads?
- The police have received instructions to clear the roads by evening and will take firm action against any resistance.
5. How have the protests impacted daily life in Karachi?
- The protests have caused severe traffic disruptions, affecting businesses, weddings, and travel plans.
