KARACHI: In a bid to prevent urban flooding and environmental degradation, the Commissioner of Karachi has imposed Section 144, strictly prohibiting the dumping of trash and debris into the city’s stormwater drains (nullahs). The ban, which comes into effect from January 22 and will remain in place until March 22, targets a wide range of offenders including garbage pickers, scrap dealers, and the general public.
Legal Action and Enforcement Any individual found dumping waste or construction debris into the drains will face immediate legal action. Station House Officers (SHOs) have been authorized to register cases against violators under the relevant sections of the law.
Reasons for the Ban Authorities noted that the accumulation of waste leads to severe environmental hazards and causes blockages during the monsoon season, exacerbating the risk of flooding in the metropolis. The Commissioner emphasized that this two-month crackdown is essential to maintain the city’s drainage infrastructure and ensure public safety.