In a bid to curb rising road accidents and ease chronic congestion, authorities have banned the daytime movement of heavy vehicles in Karachi for two months, effective December 23 to February 22, 2026.
The decision follows a spike in fatal crashes involving dumpers, trailers, and water tankers, prompting urgent calls for stricter traffic controls.
Why the Ban Was Imposed
According to an official notification issued by Syed Hassan Naqvi, the restriction was enforced after a formal request from the Karachi Traffic Police. Authorities cited two primary concerns:
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Public safety: A growing number of deadly accidents linked to heavy vehicles
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Traffic flow: Severe congestion caused by daytime movement of large trucks
Invoking Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the administration said the measure was necessary to protect lives and ensure smoother traffic across the city.
What the Ban Covers
Under the new order:
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All heavy vehicles are prohibited from operating between 6:00am and 10:00pm
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Dumper trucks carrying construction material are completely barred during daytime hours citywide
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Jinnah Avenue is under a total restriction for heavy traffic, from Super Highway (M-9) near Saima Pari Classic and Rufi Global City up to Malir Halt, Sharea Faisal
Permitted hours: Heavy vehicles may operate only between 10:00pm and 6:00am.
Essential Commodities Exempted
To avoid supply disruptions, vehicles carrying essential goods are exempt from the ban, including:
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Water tankers
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Edible oil
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Liquid nitrogen
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Meat and skins
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Medical gases and other life-saving supplies
Additionally, dumpers fitted with approved GPS tracking devices—integrated with the Karachi Traffic Police monitoring system—are allowed limited movement within industrial zones.
Designated Routes for Heavy Traffic
To streamline freight movement, authorities have designated specific corridors (excluding dumpers carrying construction material):
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Super Highway → New Karachi Industrial Area (via Slip Road)
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National Highway → Godown Chowrangi, Younas Chowrangi, Dawood Chowrangi
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Northern Bypass → Gulbai and Mauripur en route to Karachi Port
An alternate route has also been specified from Link Road Kathore to Sassi Toll Plaza.
A Repeat Measure Amid Safety Concerns
This is not the first time Karachi has imposed such restrictions. Earlier this year, the Sindh government enforced a 60-day ban on heavy vehicles, later extending it due to continued safety concerns. Recent incidents—including multiple fatalities caused by negligent driving—have reinforced the need for sustained enforcement.
What Commuters and Transporters Should Know
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Duration: December 23, 2025 – February 22, 2026
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Allowed window: 10:00pm – 6:00am
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Strict enforcement: Violations may lead to fines and vehicle seizure
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Plan ahead: Transporters should reschedule daytime deliveries and use approved routes
Bottom Line
The two-month daytime ban aims to reduce accidents, save lives, and improve traffic flow in Pakistan’s largest city. Authorities urge transporters and drivers to comply fully, while commuters are advised to remain cautious during peak hours.
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