A crackdown on roadside encroachments across all districts of Karachi is currently underway. This is a long-awaited step and is being welcomed by the city’s residents. For years, illegal encroachments have caused immense inconvenience to pedestrians and shoppers, while severely disrupting the smooth flow of vehicular traffic. Their removal has visibly improved mobility and public access and this action deserves appreciation.
However, experience shows that such drives often lose their impact once enforcement weakens. To ensure lasting benefits, the administration must put in place effective follow-up mechanisms. These may include regular monitoring, clear demarcation of pedestrian spaces, strict penalties for repeat violations and coordination with local governments and law-enforcement agencies. Only sustained enforcement, combined with transparent governance, can prevent the return of encroachments and help Karachi reclaim its public spaces permanently.
Dr Mohammad Saleem
Karachi
