Traffic disruption has intensified across Karachi after the theft of cables and essential equipment left 33 traffic signals inoperative, creating further difficulties for motorists and commuters.
According to the Karachi Development Authority’s (KDA) Traffic Engineering Bureau (TEB), the city has 94 installed traffic signals, more than a third of which are currently dysfunctional due to repeated incidents of theft.
Suspected drug addicts, previously reported to have stolen iron railings from parks, playgrounds and roadsides, are now allegedly targeting traffic signal infrastructure, removing valuable components and leaving intersections without functioning traffic controls.
Despite the recurring damage, the relevant authorities have reportedly failed to introduce effective measures to protect the installations and prevent further thefts.
Surveillance cameras positioned along major roads have primarily been used to monitor traffic violations and issue challans, raising questions about why the same systems have not been effectively utilised to identify individuals damaging public infrastructure.
A survey conducted by The Express Tribune found that traffic police officers frequently have to regulate vehicle movement manually at intersections where signals have stopped working.
However, some affected junctions reportedly remain without traffic personnel, leaving motorists to navigate busy crossings without proper traffic management.
The situation is further aggravated by damaged roads and deteriorating road surfaces, which slow vehicle movement and contribute to congestion.
Consequently, lengthy traffic queues and delays have become a regular problem on major thoroughfares as well as streets serving residential and commercial neighbourhoods.
The widespread failure of traffic signals has highlighted concerns over the protection and maintenance of Karachi’s public infrastructure, with commuters continuing to face disruptions to their daily journeys.