Karachi Extends Rickshaw Ban to 26 Major Roads. Karachi, Pakistan’s largest metropolitan city, continues to struggle with severe traffic congestion due to rising population, increasing vehicle numbers, and limited road capacity. In response, authorities have now extended the ban on two-seater and four-seater rickshaws across 26 major roads of the city. This latest directive aims to improve traffic flow, reduce road blockage, and support safer transportation.
The decision was confirmed by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi after recommendations from DIG Traffic Peer Muhammad Shah, and has been implemented under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
Why Karachi Extended the Rickshaw Ban
The Sindh government expanded the rickshaw ban because of:
1. Increasing Traffic Congestion
Karachi’s main roads face:
- Slow-moving traffic
- Frequent bottlenecks
- Excessive delays during peak hours
Officials believe restricting rickshaws on major arteries will streamline vehicle movement.
2. Public Complaints & Safety Concerns
Citizens reported:
- Gridlocked intersections
- Sudden rickshaw stops
- Poor lane discipline
- Frequent minor accidents
Authorities aim to reduce accidents and improve road safety.
3. Heavy Vehicle Pressure
Along with rickshaws, HTVs (Heavy Transport Vehicles) contributed to congestion.
Therefore:
- A daytime ban on heavy vehicles has also been imposed
- A 30 km/h speed limit is now enforced for HTVs
Previously Restricted Roads
The first notification issued on October 17, 2025 banned rickshaws on 20 major roads of Karachi.
Rickshaw Ban Extended: Total 26 Roads Restricted (Updated List 2025)
Authorities have added six more major roads, bringing the total to 26 roads.
Here is the complete updated list:
Complete List of Roads Where Rickshaws Are Now Banned
- Shahrah-e-Faisal
- II Chundrigar Road
- Shahrah-e-Quaideen
- Shershah Suri Road
- Shaheed-e-Millat Road
- Abdullah Haroon Road to Do Talwar
- Shahrah-e-Firdousi
- Stadium Road
- Sir Shah Suleman Road
- Rashid Minhas Road
- Mauripur Road
- Shahrah-e-Pakistan
- Hub River Road
- Quaidabad to Landhi 89
- University Road
- Korangi Road (FTC to Qayyumabad)
- Korangi Road (Qayyumabad to Korangi Crossing)
- Orangi Road
- Super Highway to Malir Halt
- Surjani to Sohrab Goth
- Six newly added major roads (official names included above within the list)
This expansion aims to keep Karachi’s busiest roads smoother and safer for daily commuters.
How This Ban Affects Citizens
The ban affects both rickshaw drivers and daily commuters. Here’s what it means:
For Commuters
- Reduced rickshaw availability on major routes
- Slight increase in travel time for short-distance commuters
- Encouragement to shift toward buses, bikes, and ride-sharing apps
For Rickshaw Drivers
- Limited operating zones may affect daily income
- Need to shift toward:
- Service roads
- Internal link streets
- Feeder routes near public transport stations
For Overall Traffic Movement
- Smoother vehicle flow
- Fewer lane violations
- Faster travel times on Karachi’s main roads
Government Measures to Improve Traffic
Along with the rickshaw ban, the Sindh government has introduced:
1. Daytime Ban on Heavy Vehicles
Heavy vehicles cannot enter the city during peak daytime hours.
2. 30 km/h Speed Limit for HTVs
Set to avoid accidents and maintain regulated traffic movement.
3. Monitoring Under Section 144
Legal enforcement ensures:
- Quick action against violations
- Continuous monitoring by traffic police
4. Road Expansion & Future Planning
Authorities have hinted at:
- New flyovers
- Signal-free corridors
- Improved public transport systems
Public Reaction to the Rickshaw Ban
People in Karachi have shown mixed reactions:
Positive Feedback
- Better traffic flow
- Reduced noise pollution
- Safer road environment
Negative Feedback
- Difficulty in finding rickshaws for short trips
- Drivers facing income challenges
- Increased dependence on expensive transport options
Will the Rickshaw Ban Expand Further?
Officials have not ruled out the possibility of adding more roads if:
- Congestion continues
- Road safety becomes a concern
- Public feedback supports it
The administration will continue reviewing traffic conditions in coming months.
FAQs About Karachi Extends Rickshaw Ban to 26 Major Roads
1. Why did Karachi extend the rickshaw ban?
The ban was extended to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and streamline vehicle movement on key routes.
2. How many roads are now restricted for rickshaws?
A total of 26 major roads are now restricted.
3. Who approved this decision?
Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi, based on recommendations from DIG Traffic Peer Muhammad Shah.
4. Under which law is the ban enforced?
The ban is implemented under Section 144 of the CrPC.
5. Does the ban apply to all rickshaws?
Yes, both two-seater and four-seater rickshaws are restricted on listed roads.
6. Can rickshaws operate on service roads?
Yes, rickshaws can operate on internal streets and service lanes, but not on the banned main roads.
Conclusion
The decision to extend the rickshaw ban to 26 major roads in Karachi reflects the government’s effort to combat worsening traffic congestion and ensure safer, smoother transportation across the city. While the move has affected rickshaw drivers and short-distance commuters, authorities believe it will result in long-term improvements in Karachi’s traffic system.
