Pillion riding banned in Karachi's South district ahead of New Year celebrations

The notification stated that such gatherings could lead to traffic congestion and cause inconvenience to local residents.

Web Desk

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31 Dec 2025

In view of potential disorder by youths and the risk of disruption to traffic during New Year celebrations, a ban has been imposed on pillion riding and aerial firing in Karachi’s South District on the request of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, South Zone.

According to a notification issued by the Karachi Commissioner’s Office, the DIG South Zone informed the authorities that on the occasion of the arrival of the New Year 2026, large numbers of young people from various parts of the city are expected to travel on motorcycles and in cars to coastal areas to celebrate.

The notification stated that such gatherings could lead to traffic congestion and cause inconvenience to local residents.

It further noted that the DIG South Zone requested the imposition of restrictions under Section 144, including a ban on the display of weapons, aerial firing, the use of firecrackers, and pillion riding, in order to ensure public safety.

The Commissioner’s Office stated that it has been observed that on New Year’s occasions, some individuals resort to aerial firing, which may result in untoward incidents and pose a serious threat to human life.

To safeguard the lives and security of citizens, the notification said it was necessary to enforce restrictions under Section 144 within the local limits of the Karachi Division on the display of weapons, aerial firing, the use of firecrackers, and pillion riding during New Year celebrations.

Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi stated that, exercising his authority, all these restrictions, including the ban on pillion riding, have been fully enforced for two days—31 December 2025 and 1 January 2026—on the occasion of the New Year.

The notification clarified that the ban on pillion riding will not apply to women, children under the age of 12, senior citizens, journalists, personnel of law enforcement agencies, uniformed staff of registered private security agencies, and employees performing essential services.