By In preparation for the upcoming Muharram processions, the Karachi Traffic Police have announced a comprehensive traffic diversion plan to ensure public safety and maintain smooth traffic flow across the city. The plan, released by the Office of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, will be implemented during the 8th, 9th, and 10th of Muharram 1447 Hijri, which corresponds to July 4, 5, and 6, 2025.
Central Procession Route and Road Closures
As per tradition, the main Muharram procession will begin at Nishtar Park and conclude at Hussainia Iranian Imambargah, passing through its established route. To secure the participants and manage large gatherings, MA Jinnah Road — one of Karachi’s busiest arteries — will remain completely closed to all traffic from Guru Mandir to Tower during the processions.
Alternate Routes for Commuters
To minimize inconvenience, the Karachi Traffic Police have advised commuters from various districts to follow designated alternate routes:
- District Central:
- Traffic from Nazimabad should travel via Lasbela Chowk to reach Nishtar Road through Garden.
- Vehicles from Liaquatabad are advised to use Teen Hatti towards Lasbela or Martin Road.
- From Hassan Square, motorists can take the Jail Flyover underpass to reach Kashmir Road and Society Signal.
- District East:
- Vehicles from Shahrah-e-Faisal should use Society Signal and Kashmir Road to access Numaish.
- Traffic from the Central Jail Gate should use Bahadur Yar Jang Road and Soldier Bazaar.
- District South:
- Traffic from Garden Zoo can go through Uncle Saria, Gul Plaza, Coast Guard, and Holy Family Hospital.
Heavy Vehicle Diversions
Heavy and commercial vehicles coming from Super Highway and Gulberg intending to reach MA Jinnah Road will be rerouted via Liaquatabad No.10, Nazimabad No.2, Habib Bank Flyover, Sher Shah, and then onto Mauripur. Vehicles from the National Highway will be diverted through Shahrah-e-Faisal, Rashid Minhas, Stadium Road, Sir Shah Suleman Road, and Hassan Square to reach Mauripur.
Strict Access Controls
Only vehicles with official procession stickers will be permitted entry on MA Jinnah Road through Shahrah-e-Quaideen and Society Signal. Sabeel and tabarruk vehicles will be allowed from Tower and Memon Masjid sides, but no parking will be permitted along the procession route to prevent congestion and ensure smooth passage for participants.
Recommended Routes for Participants
Participants are advised to plan their routes accordingly:
- From Nazimabad: Use Lasbela, Garden Jamaat Khana, and Soldier Bazaar No.3 to reach Numaish.
- From Liaquatabad: Use Teen Hatti, Jehangir Road, and Guru Mandir.
- From Gulistan-e-Johar or Gulshan: Follow University Road, Kashmir Road, and Society Signal.
Public Cooperation Requested
The Karachi Traffic Police have urged all citizens to strictly adhere to these traffic diversions and avoid unnecessary travel in restricted areas during the processions. Authorities emphasize that public cooperation with law enforcement is vital to ensuring the peaceful observance of Muharram and the safety of all participants and commuters.
With timely planning, awareness, and responsible travel behavior, the city aims to facilitate thousands of mourners while minimizing disruption for other road users.
