Security was beefed up in the city on Tuesday due to the visit of Iran's president, but a traffic diversion plan issued for public awareness was implemented for extended hours, closing several roads and causing difficulties for commuters to reach their destinations.
According to observers, although law enforcement agencies (LEAs) said the roads would be closed from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, some roads were not reopened until 9:00 pm. However, most roads in the red zones were closed and a diversion plan was issued for the public, while traffic sergeants were present at diversion points to ease the commute.
According to the security plan, there were 3,847 police officers on duty in the city. In addition, 345 officers were deployed in the West District and 300 in the South District for security, while 1,500 traffic police officers and more than 300 special forces officers were also deployed. Snipers were also deployed at sensitive locations.
Residents were also assisted by police line 15 and line 1915 in case of emergency. According to officials, the Sindh Police has tried to take all possible steps to discharge its duties.
They said Sindh Police Chief Ghulam Nabi Memon has directed his department to make all security and traffic arrangements at all levels extraordinary for the arrival of foreign dignitaries. Karachi police have been given strict instructions to further enhance security measures in the city, remain active and monitor unusual activities. IGP Memon also ordered patrolling, patrolling, tightening of roadblocks and conducting random checks. The enforcement of § 144 and the ban on the use of drones were also ensured.
Officials said Sindh Police used all available resources to protect lives and property of people, adding that the safety of residents is the top priority of Karachi Police. Earlier, both the Sharea Faisal Colleges were closed from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and the airport road to PIDC was also closed as per the city traffic police plan. In addition, Shahrah-e-Quaideen and Dr. Road were also closed from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Ziauddin Ahmed Road.
