In anticipation of New Year’s Eve celebrations, the district administration of Karachi has taken a proactive approach by implementing Section 144—an emergency law—aimed at maintaining public safety. The recent notification by Karachi Commissioner highlights a specific ban on aerial firing, emphasizing the need for stringent actions against any violations. This regulatory measure will be in effect from the evening of December 31st, 2023, until January 1st, 2024.
Crackdown on Drunk Driving:
In a bid to ensure road safety during the festivities, DIG Traffic Iqbal Dara announced a comprehensive strategy to combat drunk driving. Specially organized teams equipped with breathalyzers will be deployed to assess alcohol consumption among drivers. Violators will not only face legal consequences but also risk having their vehicles confiscated, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to curbing reckless behavior on the roads.
Unique Ban on New Year Events:
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has introduced an unusual ban on all New Year events. The rationale behind this prohibition is to express solidarity with the Palestinians, emphasizing the nation’s concern for their plight in Gaza and the West Bank. Kakar urged the public to demonstrate support for Gaza by maintaining simplicity during the New Year’s celebrations.
Nationwide Security Measures:
Beyond Karachi, security measures have been significantly bolstered in various cities of Punjab. A total of 21,413 police officers and personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of New Year’s Eve celebrations. In Lahore alone, 2373 officers and personnel will be on duty to secure New Year programs. The Punjab Police spokesperson affirmed the completion of security preparations in other major cities, including Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, reflecting a concerted effort to maintain public safety across the country.
