KARACHI: A protest by rickshaw drivers brought parts of Karachi to a standstill on Monday, as members of the Rickshaw Association blocked major roads around the Karachi Press Club to protest a recent city-wide ban on rickshaws from 11 key routes.
The demonstrators deliberately parked their rickshaws to obstruct traffic, leading to severe congestion and stranding thousands of commuters in the scorching heat. Gridlock quickly spread across central parts of the city, disrupting both public and private transportation networks.
The protest comes in response to the government’s decision to bar rickshaw access on several of the city’s busiest roads—a move the Rickshaw Association says threatens drivers’ livelihoods and lacks proper consultation.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with many residents forced to abandon vehicles and walk long distances due to impassable roads.
Protesters have called for an immediate rollback of the restrictions and urged city authorities to engage in dialogue. The association has warned of continued demonstrations if their demands are not addressed.
Authorities are currently working to ease traffic congestion and initiate talks with protest leaders. More updates will follow as the situation develops.
