Karachi traffic disrupted as protesters rally against potential US, Israel strikes on Iran

A protest rally against potential American and Israeli strikes on Iran led to the closure of several key thoroughfares in Karachi on Friday, as demonstrators took to MA Jinnah Road to voice their opposition.

The protest, which began near the Kharadar police station, resulted in the closure of MA Jinnah Road towards Tower, causing significant traffic disruptions in the city’s central districts.

Protesters were seen carrying anti-Israel placards and chanting slogans against Israel as the rally proceeded. Participants had gathered at Khwaja Asna Ashri Mosque and were scheduled to march to Nishtar Park.

According to traffic police, vehicles approaching from Kharadar police station were being diverted towards Yaqoobiya Mosque to manage the flow and avoid congestion.

In addition to the rally route, authorities closed both tracks of MT Khan Road due to security concerns. Similarly, both roads leading to and from Mai Kolachi were also shut down for traffic.

Access routes from PIDC towards Sultanabad were completely closed, with traffic being redirected from PIDC towards Khajoor Chowk. Vehicles arriving from Mai Kolachi were turned back via U-turn points to prevent gridlock.

Traffic coming from Jinnah Bridge was diverted towards II Chundrigar Road as part of the alternative route plan implemented by traffic police.

Motorists have been advised to plan alternate routes and expect delays in the affected areas until the rally concludes and normal traffic flow resumes.