Karachi: Authorities in Karachi have imposed Section 144 across the port city, placing a blanket ban on gatherings involving more than five people until 30 September as provincial governments step up security measures nationwide.

The order, issued by Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi following written recommendations from the police, prohibits hosting, organising, or participating in protests, rallies, demonstrations, processions, or sit ins throughout the metropolis.

Official said that unannounced demonstrations on arterial roads, key intersections, and roundabouts were causing severe traffic gridlock and posing grave security challenges. They noted that these road blockages routinely obstruct the movement of emergency vehicles, impede access to healthcare facilities, and hamper daily commercial life.

The order noted that preventive measures were necessary to avoid untoward incidents, safeguard public peace, and ensure the unhindered movement of essential services and citizens.

The administrative measures in Karachi align with a broader nationwide security strategy implemented across multiple provinces ahead of political rallies called by the PTI for September 27.

Section 144 bans gatherings of greater than five people from September 24 to 30 in Karachi, in Hyderabad and Sukkur through 29 September, in Punjab for 13 days, In Islamabad under the Peaceful Assembly Act for two months, and across Balochistan, for 30 days.

In Islamabad, additional measures under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024 remain in force, placing legal parameters on political demonstrations across the federal capital. Authorities across all jurisdictions maintain that the preventive restrictions are aimed strictly at safeguarding public property and ensuring municipal stability.