31 Dec 2024 | 03:13 AM UTC
Pakistan: Shi'a groups continue protests in multiple cities, especially Karachi, as of Dec. 31 /update 1
Shi'a groups' protests continue across Pakistan, mainly Karachi, as of Dec. 31. Increased security and disruptions reported in cities.
Various Shi'a groups are continuing indefinite sit-in protests in multiple cities as of Dec. 31 to denounce ongoing sectarian violence in northwestern Pakistan since late November. Organizers have blamed Sunni groups for targeted attacks on Shi'a Muslims in the region, prompting an indefinite blockade affecting Parachinar in Kurram District. Karachi city remains the worst affected due to ongoing protests by the Majlis-e-Wahdatul-Muslimeen (MWM) since Dec. 24 and planned demonstrations by the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) at 60 major intersections from 15:00 Dec. 31. Details of ongoing and upcoming events are as follows:
Karachi: Abbas Town, Abul Hassan Isphahani Road; Akhtar Colony; Ancholi; Baloch Colony; Civic Center; Defense Mor; 4K, Gulshan, Kamran, Nagan, Numaish, and Rizvia Chowrangi; Hydari Market; Gulistan-e-Johar; Gulshan-e-Haded; Gulshan-e-Maymar, Korangi No. 5; Karimabad; Lasbela Chowk; Liaquatabad Super Market; Malir 15 Flyover along National Highway 5; M9 Motorway; Mosmayat Chowk, Saeedi Market; Safoora Chowrangi; Sohrab Goth; Star Gate area along Shahrah-e-Faisal; Surjani Town in North Karachi; University Road near Safari Park
Lahore: Lahore Press Club along Davis Road
Additional gatherings and shutdown strikes are likely in the coming days. Potential protest sites include prominent government buildings, monuments, press clubs, public squares, sports grounds, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings could draw a few thousand participants, prompting localized traffic disruptions. In Karachi, 13 major roads, including sections of National Highway 5 and routes to the Jinnah International Airport (KHI), are facing disruptions due to closures, diversions, and blockades.
Authorities will likely monitor rallies and impose security restrictions depending on operational needs. Associated transport disruptions are probable. Clashes between police and activists are possible. Officials may impose telecommunications controls, including mobile internet suspensions and restrictions on social media and messaging applications in case of significant violence. Local business closures are possible in Shi'a-dominated neighborhoods during any related shutdown strikes.
Avoid all protests due to the threat of violence. Leave the area immediately for a secure, nongovernment building if clashes occur. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan for business disruptions during shutdown strikes. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
