Protest Against Power Outage Continues on National Highway for Over 12 Hours, Looting Incidents Reported Amid Traffic Gridlock

Karachi: A severe protest against prolonged electricity outages has paralyzed traffic on the National Highway near Quaidabad since 8 PM on Friday night, with the demonstration still ongoing more than 12 hours later. The unrest has led to a complete traffic shutdown and multiple reports of looting.
The protest, sparked by extended power outages in the area, has brought traffic to a standstill from Quaidabad to Malir Halt, with long queues of vehicles — including heavy traffic — stretching across the highway. Commuters are facing extreme difficulty, particularly those returning with sacrificial animals ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, many of whom are stranded for hours.
Despite several attempts at negotiation, police officials have so far failed to reach any agreement with the protesters. Demonstrators have made it clear that the protest will continue until the power supply is fully restored.
Taking advantage of the chaotic situation, criminal elements have reportedly carried out lootings. In one incident, armed individuals robbed a young man of his motorcycle before fleeing the scene.
The ongoing standoff has created a tense and dangerous situation on one of Karachi’s busiest roadways, raising concerns about law and order and the safety of citizens caught in the gridlock.