Traders in Karachi have rejected the Sindh government’s proposed “no-parking” pilot project in Saddar, raising concerns over its impact on businesses.
Rizwan Irfan, President of the Saddar Electronic Market, said the Deputy Commissioner informed him that the provincial government plans to introduce no-parking zones in Saddar and on Zaibunnisa Street.
Under the proposal, cars and motorcycles will not be allowed to park in the designated areas, while pick-and-drop services will remain permitted. Irfan said authorities are also considering imposing a fine of Rs. 50,000 on shopkeepers if makeshift stalls are found outside their shops.
He opposed the idea of declaring Abdullah Haroon Road a no-parking area without first arranging alternative parking facilities. He warned that forcing customers to park far from markets could reduce foot traffic and affect business activity.
On the issue of fines, he said shopkeepers should not be held responsible for stalls set up by encroachers and urged authorities to take direct action against those involved. As an alternative, Irfan proposed constructing an underground parking facility beneath Jehangir Park.
Traders have called on the Sindh government and the Karachi mayor to review the plan, stating that decisions should not be made without consultation with stakeholders.
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