Pakistan: Tight security, traffic controls in place for international cricket match scheduled in Karachi Jan. 26-30

Event

Authorities will maintain heightened security measures and traffic restrictions in parts of Karachi for a cricket match with the South African national team at the National Stadium Jan. 26-30. The game will start at 1000 on match days and last around six hours each day. Spectators are not allowed as part of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. International cricket matches in Pakistan are potential militant group targets, and thousands of security personnel have deployed in Karachi as a precaution. Officials will intensify pedestrian and vehicle checks near the stadium.

Authorities will implement strict traffic controls, including diversions and road closures, around the National Stadium and along team travel routes. In particular, Hassan Square Flyover and Rashid Minhas, Sir Shah Suleman, Stadium, and University roads will be closed 0900-1800 on match days. Similar measures are likely through Jan. 30 in the Civil Lines area, where practice venues and team hotels are located. Increased congestion is likely on alternative routes across Karachi, especially during peak travel times. Officials may suspend public transport services serving the vicinity of the stadium on match days. Passengers at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport (KHI) could experience lengthy baggage and security checks on days the South African team travels. Officials typically order businesses around the stadium to close during matches.

Context

International cricket teams have rarely visited Pakistan since Islamist militants opened fire on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in March 2009. Over ten top Sri Lankan players withdrew from a tournament scheduled in September 2019 for security reasons, almost prompting the cancellation of the event. Pakistani authorities have assured that extensive security is in place for visiting teams.

Advice

Avoid the match venue and its vicinity on match days as a precaution. Confirm business appointments, road status, and transport reservations before attempting to reach destinations in the affected areas. Exercise caution around potential militant target sites such as government buildings and security facilities. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks; heed all official advisories.