KARACHI: Authorities in Karachi on Monday expanded their crackdown on anti-encroachment sealing the automobile spare parts market off M.A. Jinnah Road near Tibet Centre, along with hundreds of other shops across the city. The move follows the closure of the entire motorcycle market on Akbar Road, which remained shut for a third consecutive day.
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Officials said 86 shops in the spare parts market were sealed after vehicles parked in front of the shops obstructed traffic, while 115 shops in the Akbar Road motorcycle market were also targeted for similar reasons. Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso said shopkeepers had been warned multiple times to remove encroachments, adding that roadside mechanics and electricians hired by shop owners were contributing to congestion.
The administration has directed shopkeepers to submit affidavits assuring compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Shops that provide undertakings will be reopened in phases, while any future violations could lead to FIRs and arrests. In the past three days, officials have also sealed 196 roadside eateries for encroachment.
Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi said the campaign aims to curb the growing trend of obstructions on footpaths, roads, and service lanes, warning that no shop or eatery would be allowed to place goods outside their premises.
However, traders criticised the drive, calling it excessive and potentially harmful to the economy. Muhammad Sabir Shaikh, former Motorcycle Dealers Association office-bearer, argued that displaying bikes outside outlets is a common practice worldwide and urged authorities to designate lanes for such displays. Other dealers alleged that the anti-encroachment campaign is being used to justify increasing rates.
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The crackdown reflects the city administration’s push to enforce urban regulations, but traders warn it may disrupt daily business and trade activity.