By In a major move aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving road safety, the Karachi administration has announced a temporary ban on the entry of dumpers and heavy vehicles into the city during daytime hours. According to an official notification, the restriction will remain in effect for two months and applies daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over traffic gridlock, road damage, and frequent accidents involving heavy vehicles on Karachi’s busy streets. Authorities believe that restricting the movement of large vehicles during peak hours will help ensure smoother traffic flow and safer commuting conditions for residents.
Permitted Routes for Heavy Vehicles
Despite the ban, the administration has designated specific routes where heavy traffic will still be allowed to operate under regulated conditions. These routes are primarily aimed at maintaining supply chains and industrial activity without disrupting city traffic.
Under the new rules, heavy vehicles will be permitted to travel from the Super Highway directly to the Karachi Industrial Area. Additionally, trucks and dumpers may use the National Highway route via Warehouse Chowrangi, Yunus Chowrangi, and Daud Chowrangi, extending up to Jam Sadiq Bridge.
Other approved routes for heavy traffic include:
- Northern Bypass to Pracha Chowk
- Northern Bypass to Siemens Chowrangi
- Northern Bypass to Gulbai
- Mauripur Road to Karachi Port
- Link Road from Kathore to Sassi Toll Plaza
Authorities have warned that any deviation from these designated routes during restricted hours will result in strict action, including fines and possible vehicle seizure.
Objective Behind the Heavy Vehicle Ban
Officials stated that the primary objective of the Karachi heavy vehicle entry ban is to:
- Reduce daytime traffic congestion
- Minimize road accidents involving large vehicles
- Improve traffic flow during peak hours
- Protect urban road infrastructure
Karachi’s rapid urban expansion and rising vehicle volume have placed immense pressure on its road network. Dumpers and heavy trucks operating during peak hours often worsen bottlenecks, especially in commercial and residential zones.
Relief for Commuters, Adjustment for Transporters
While daily commuters are expected to benefit from reduced congestion, transporters and logistics companies will need to adjust their schedules, relying more on nighttime movement for city entry.
The administration has urged all transport operators to strictly follow the new traffic plan to avoid penalties and ensure the policy’s success.
With enforcement teams deployed across entry points, the two-month ban signals Karachi’s broader push toward better traffic management and safer urban mobility.
