by Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling metropolis and economic hub, is preparing to host a major international event — the Maritime Expo 2025. With delegates, exhibitors, and visitors arriving from across the globe, the city’s traffic management authorities have unveiled a comprehensive traffic diversion plan to ensure smooth vehicular flow and minimal disruption for commuters. This plan, devised by the Karachi Traffic Police and supported by the Sindh government, comes as part of extensive logistical measures to accommodate the increased movement around key event venues and nearby areas.
As the event draws near, the authorities have appealed to citizens to stay updated on traffic routes, follow designated diversions, and use alternate pathways to avoid congestion. Here’s a detailed look at the traffic plan, the affected routes, and how Karachiites can best navigate the city during the Maritime Expo.
Overview of the Maritime Expo 2025
The Maritime Expo 2025 is one of the most significant international exhibitions focusing on naval, shipping, and marine industries. It is being held at the Karachi Expo Center and the Karachi Port area, where global companies, defense organizations, and technology firms will showcase their innovations in maritime technology and logistics.
Given Karachi’s strategic position as Pakistan’s primary seaport city, the event aims to promote blue economy development, strengthen international maritime cooperation, and highlight investment opportunities in Pakistan’s naval and shipping sectors. Dignitaries, naval officers, foreign delegations, and local visitors are expected to attend, leading to a temporary but considerable increase in city traffic.
Traffic Diversion Plan: Key Areas Affected
The Karachi Traffic Police have announced a series of diversions, alternative routes, and parking arrangements to manage the expected surge in vehicular activity. The main focus is around the Karachi Expo Center, University Road, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Hasan Square, Karsaz Road, and connecting arteries.
Below is a breakdown of the traffic diversion details released by authorities:
| Area / Route | Traffic Diversion | Alternate Routes / Advisory |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Center vicinity (Main Gate, University Road) | Entry restricted to authorized vehicles only | General public advised to use Rashid Minhas Road or Jamshed Road as alternate routes |
| Shahrah-e-Faisal (Karsaz to Nursery) | Partial lane closure during high-security movements | Commuters encouraged to take Korangi Road or Tipu Sultan Road |
| Hasan Square Flyover | Temporarily closed during delegate movement | Use Liaquatabad Underpass or Sir Shah Suleman Road |
| Karsaz Road | Restricted entry towards Naval installations | Civilian traffic to be diverted to Stadium Road |
| National Stadium Road | High-security zone, traffic slowed for checks | Use Dalmia Road or Old Sabzi Mandi routes |
| PIB Colony and Jamshed Road | Intermittent blockages for route clearance | Commuters should avoid during peak hours |
| Karachi Port Area | Access limited to event and cargo traffic | Alternate access via MT Khan Road or Mai Kolachi Bypass |
| University Road (from NIPA to Expo) | One-way movement during event hours | Reverse lane open only after 6 PM |
| Shahrah-e-Quaideen and Jail Road | Congestion expected due to diverted traffic | Motorists advised to use Bahadurabad or Hill Park routes |
Traffic Police Directives and Citizen Cooperation
The Karachi Traffic Police have urged citizens to plan their commutes carefully. Motorists are advised to avoid the Expo Center area unless absolutely necessary, as security restrictions will be in place for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Officials also emphasized that traffic wardens will be deployed across key intersections to guide drivers, manage diversions, and ensure that emergency vehicles can move unhindered. Public transport operators and ride-hailing services have been briefed about the diversions to minimize confusion among passengers.
Citizens are encouraged to:
- Check the latest updates via FM Radio 88.6 (Traffic Police Radio).
- Follow official social media pages of Karachi Traffic Police for live route changes.
- Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Pakistan-based platforms that provide live congestion data.
- Refrain from parking near restricted areas or on main arteries to avoid towing and fines.
The Traffic DIG stated that the plan’s goal is to maintain smooth traffic flow while ensuring security and accessibility for both the general public and event participants.
Security and Coordination with Law Enforcement
Given the international importance of the Maritime Expo, the Sindh Police, Pakistan Navy, and Rangers have jointly implemented a multi-layered security plan. All entry and exit points around the Karachi Expo Center and the port will be monitored through CCTV cameras, surveillance drones, and rapid-response units.
High-ranking officials confirmed that checkpoints and scanning systems have been installed at strategic locations to verify vehicle credentials and prevent unauthorized access. The Sindh Home Department has also restricted heavy traffic movement in certain areas during the event hours to reduce congestion and enhance security.
The Traffic Police have coordinated with the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to clear encroachments, illegal parking spots, and roadside vendors that typically worsen traffic jams near Expo Center and Shahrah-e-Faisal.
Impact on Daily Commuters
Karachi, already known for its heavy traffic congestion, faces additional challenges when large-scale events coincide with business hours. Office workers, students, and residents living near University Road, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, or Karsaz are likely to experience delays and detours during the event days.
Many daily commuters have expressed concern about potential travel time increases. However, authorities have reassured the public that the diversions are temporary and will be lifted as soon as the event concludes.
Employers and educational institutions in affected zones are also being advised to adjust timings or implement work-from-home arrangements where possible to ease the traffic load during peak hours.
Public Transport and Ride-Hailing Adjustments
Public transport routes have also been modified. The Karachi Metropolitan Bus Service (Peoples Bus Service) has announced temporary route alterations for lines passing through University Road, Karsaz, and Shahrah-e-Faisal. Commuters are encouraged to check schedules before traveling.
Ride-hailing companies like Careem and InDriver have issued in-app alerts notifying users of possible detours and extended trip durations. For passengers headed toward the Expo Center, these services will have designated pick-up and drop-off zones outside restricted areas to avoid security checks and traffic blockages.
Parking Facilities for Visitors
For those attending the Maritime Expo, designated parking zones have been set up at:
- National Coaching Center Ground (adjacent to Expo Center)
- Karsaz Navy Ground
- Old Sabzi Mandi parking area
Shuttle services will operate between these parking points and the event venue, ensuring safe and convenient transportation for visitors.
Authorities have strictly prohibited roadside parking and warned that any vehicles found parked in “No Parking” zones near the Expo Center or along University Road will be towed away immediately.
Traffic Police Helpline and Assistance
To address public concerns and provide real-time guidance, the Karachi Traffic Police have activated a 24-hour helpline (1915). Citizens can call this number to:
- Get updates on diversions and road closures.
- Report traffic jams or accidents.
- Seek assistance for lost vehicles or towed cars.
In addition, the Karachi Traffic Police mobile app is being updated with live notifications about road conditions and diversions specific to the Maritime Expo period.
Conclusion: Cooperation Is Key for Smooth Traffic Flow
The Karachi Traffic Plan for the Maritime Expo 2025 reflects a comprehensive effort to balance the city’s daily transport needs with the demands of a high-profile international event. While temporary inconveniences are expected, the authorities have taken proactive measures to mitigate disruptions and ensure public safety.
Citizens’ cooperation, patience, and adherence to traffic rules will play a vital role in maintaining order during the event. By following official advisories, using alternate routes, and avoiding restricted zones, Karachiites can contribute to the successful hosting of an event that shines a positive light on Pakistan’s maritime and industrial potential.
As the Maritime Expo 2025 progresses, Karachi once again proves its resilience, adaptability, and readiness to welcome the world — even amid the city’s famously unpredictable traffic.
