Protests in Karachi against Parachinar killings cause major traffic disruptions

Protests against the killings in Parachinar have sparked major traffic disruptions in Karachi, as activists and leaders from the Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) staged sit-ins across the city. The demonstrators are demanding measures to address the ongoing violence in Parachinar, including the reopening of a road that has been closed for 90 days, hindering the transportation of essential food and medicines to the area.

The protest has blocked key roads such as Sharea Faisal, University Road, and Sharea Pakistan, causing severe traffic jams and forcing commuters to use alternative routes. Despite the disruptions, MWM spokesperson Syed Ali Ahmer Zaidi stated that one lane of Sharea Faisal has been kept open for the convenience of passengers.

The primary demands of the protesters include reopening the blocked roads in Parachinar, securing justice for the victims of the recent killings, and providing compensation to their families. The MWM also seeks the removal of local police and district officials who they believe failed to prevent the violence in the region.

Sit-ins were reported at over a dozen locations, leading to diversions and alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion. The protests, if extended, could cause even more severe disruptions, especially as the workweek begins on Monday.

The MWM’s demands also include comprehensive security operations against the perpetrators of the bus attack, the settlement of local land disputes through Jirgas, and police reforms. The situation remains tense as protesters continue to push for their demands in Karachi.