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Problems of Karachi essay in English

Is writing problems of Karachi essay giving you a headache? Don’t worry! Our Problems of Karachi Essay in English is here for you. Professionally written, this essay is perfect for students of grades 6 to 10 and college. Available in 150, 200, 250 and 300 words and in 10 lines, get yours today and impress your professor!

Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and is home to a population of more than 17 million people. It is one of the most vibrant and rapidly-growing cities in the world. However, this population growth and urbanization have come with a number of problems, ranging from environmental issues to crime, to poor infrastructure. In this blog post, we will explore the various problems that Karachi faces and discuss potential solutions. We will examine the causes of these issues and how they can be addressed in order to create a better and more sustainable future for the city’s inhabitants.

 Problems of Karachi essay in 150 words

Karachi is the biggest city in Pakistan, but it has some big problems. One big problem is bad roads, which make it hard to drive and can cause problems with water and electricity. The city also has bad sewage systems, which can make the sea and underground water dirty. 

Safety is also a big worry, with a lot of crime and bad things happening to people. Plus, many people in Karachi don’t have jobs and are very poor. They also don’t have access to things like good healthcare and schools. 

Many people are living in very crowded, bad places called slums. It is important that the leaders and other people in charge take action and try to fix these problems and make the city a better place to live.

Problems of Karachi city essay 250 words

Karachi is the biggest city in Pakistan, but it has a lot of problems. These problems are affecting the people who live there and also the city’s growth. One of the major challenges the city is facing is the lack of proper infrastructure. The roads and transportation in Karachi are not good, so it’s hard for people to move around and there’s a lot of traffic. It’s also common for people to have problems with getting water and electricity, which makes it hard for them to do things they need to do every day.

Another significant problem that the city is facing is the poor sewage system. The sewage water is not disposed of, resulting in pollution of the sea and groundwater. This not only harms the environment but also poses a threat to the health of the citizens.

Security is also a major concern in Karachi. The city has a high crime rate, and incidents of targeted killings, extortion, and kidnappings are common. The presence of various armed groups and political parties is also a major issue, as it causes instability and fear among the residents.

Karachi’s economy is also struggling, with high unemployment and poverty rates. Many residents are unable to access basic services such as healthcare and education. The city’s slums are also growing at an alarming rate, further exacerbating the problem of poverty and lack of proper housing.

In summary, Karachi is facing many challenges that are hindering its growth and affecting the daily lives of its residents. It’s vital that the government and other key stakeholders take immediate action to tackle these issues and enhance the city’s infrastructure, security, and economy, to improve the living conditions for the residents of Karachi. This will make the city a better place to live for the residents. Only through collective efforts can we see a better future for Karachi.

Karachi is a big city in Pakistan, but it has some problems that make life hard for the people who live there. One big problem is that the city doesn’t have good roads and public transportation. This makes it hard for people to get around and causes traffic. Also, the power and water often don’t work well, which makes it hard for people to do things they need to do.

Another big problem in Karachi is that the sewage system is not good. This causes pollution in the sea and in the water people to drink. This is bad for the environment and also makes people sick. Also, people in Karachi don’t get rid of their trash. This makes the streets dirty and clogged drains.

Safety is another big worry in Karachi. The city has a lot of crime and people get hurt or killed a lot. Bad things like being kidnapped, threatened for money and targeted killings happen often. There are also many groups with weapons and different political parties, which makes the city feel unsafe and scary for the people who live there.

The economy of Karachi is also struggling, with high unemployment and poverty rates. Many residents are unable to access basic services such as healthcare and education. The city’s slums are also growing at an alarming rate, further exacerbating the problem of poverty and lack of proper housing.

To sum up, Karachi has many problems that make it hard for the city to grow and for the people who live there. The government and other important people need to take action now to fix these problems. They need to make the city’s roads, public transportation, and housing better. They also need to make sure people have clean water and power. Furthermore, they need to make sure the city is clean and safe. Only by working together can we make Karachi a better place to live. The government should also focus on sustainable solutions for waste management, transportation, and housing. Also, they should take action against criminal groups to improve the security situation and promote peace in the city.

10 problems of Karachi

• Lack of proper infrastructure
• Inadequate transportation system
• Severe traffic congestion
• Frequent power outages
• Water shortages
• Inadequate sewage system leading to pollution
• Poor disposal of waste
• High crime rate
• Incidents of targeted killings, extortion, and kidnappings
• The presence of various armed groups and political parties causes instability.

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Problems of Karachi Essay | 200 & 500 Words

by Pakiology | Aug 21, 2024 | Essay | 0 comments

Explore the multifaceted challenges faced by Karachi in this comprehensive essay. From overpopulation to traffic congestion, and water scarcity to political instability, discover the key issues affecting this bustling metropolis in our “Problems of Karachi Essay | 200 & 500 Words.”

Problems of Karachi Essay 200 Words

Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, grapples with a myriad of complex issues that impact its diverse population, including students. Overpopulation, a pressing concern, strains resources, and infrastructure, leading to housing shortages and traffic congestion. The latter not only wastes valuable time but also contributes to air pollution and economic disruptions.

The city’s infrastructure is in decay, with potholed roads and inadequate public transport hindering students’ daily commute. Moreover, a severe water crisis, unequal water distribution, and contamination pose health risks, particularly for children. Energy shortages disrupt students’ study routines and hamper economic growth.

Political instability, ethnic tensions, and corruption further compound Karachi’s problems. Crime and security concerns, from street crimes to extortion threats, disrupt daily life and education. Environmental degradation, including air pollution and coastal erosion, jeopardizes the city’s future.

Educational challenges, such as limited access and varying educational quality, add to the city’s woes. The digital divide, highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, has exacerbated educational disparities.

In conclusion, Karachi faces a complex web of problems that affect students and residents alike, ranging from overpopulation and traffic congestion to water scarcity, political instability, and educational challenges. Addressing these issues requires collective efforts to ensure a better and more livable future for all in this vibrant metropolis.

Problems of Karachi Essay 500 Words

Introduction.

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan and its economic hub, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and economic opportunities. However, beneath its surface lies a myriad of complex and pressing problems that impact the daily lives of its residents. This essay aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the problems faced by Karachi, catering to all types of students, ranging from school to college levels.

I. Overpopulation

One of the most glaring issues plaguing Karachi is overpopulation. With a population of over 14 million (as of my last knowledge update in September 2021), Karachi is Pakistan’s most populous city. This rapid population growth has resulted in various challenges:

A. Housing Shortage: The city lacks adequate housing facilities to accommodate its ever-growing population. This has led to the emergence of informal settlements, commonly known as katchi abadis, characterized by substandard living conditions and a lack of basic amenities.

B. Strain on Infrastructure: Overpopulation places immense stress on infrastructure, including roads, public transport, and utilities. Traffic congestion is a daily ordeal for residents, leading to time wastage and increased air pollution.

C. Resource Scarcity: Overpopulation exacerbates the scarcity of essential resources such as water and electricity, leading to frequent shortages and increased prices.

II. Traffic Congestion

Karachi’s traffic congestion is a problem that affects everyone, from schoolchildren to working professionals. The city’s road infrastructure is inadequate to support its population’s vehicular needs, resulting in numerous issues:

A. Time Wastage: Commuters in Karachi often spend hours stuck in traffic, leading to productivity losses and stressful daily routines.

B. Air Pollution: Prolonged traffic congestion contributes to air pollution, which poses serious health risks to residents, particularly children and the elderly.

C. Economic Impact: Traffic congestion has a negative impact on the city’s economy as it disrupts the movement of goods and services, increasing costs for businesses and consumers.

III. Infrastructure Decay

The deteriorating state of Karachi’s infrastructure is a critical issue that affects students and the general population alike:

A. Poor Road Conditions: Many of Karachi’s roads are in disrepair, riddled with potholes and cracks, which not only cause traffic congestion but also pose safety hazards for commuters.

B. Inadequate Public Transport: The city’s public transportation system is outdated and inefficient, making it challenging for students to commute to schools and colleges.

C. Sanitation Problems: Karachi faces sanitation issues due to inadequate waste management infrastructure. This leads to unhygienic conditions that can contribute to the spread of diseases.

IV. Water Crisis

Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental right, but Karachi faces a severe water crisis:

A. Unequal Distribution: Water is distributed inequitably across the city, with some areas receiving a more consistent supply than others. This disparity affects students’ ability to study and maintain good hygiene.

B. Contamination: Contaminated water sources in some parts of Karachi pose health risks, especially for children, who are more susceptible to waterborne diseases.

C. Groundwater Depletion: The over-extraction of groundwater has led to a decline in the water table, further exacerbating the water crisis.

V. Energy Shortages

Karachi, like many parts of Pakistan, grapples with energy shortages:

A. Frequent Load Shedding: Unplanned load shedding disrupts students’ study routines, making it difficult to rely on consistent electricity for lighting and electronic devices.

B. Economic Impact: Energy shortages also have a significant economic impact, affecting businesses and industries in Karachi, which, in turn, affects job opportunities for college graduates.

VI. Political Instability

Political instability has a far-reaching impact on Karachi’s problems:

A. Governance Challenges: Frequent changes in local and provincial governments have hindered long-term planning and the implementation of sustainable solutions to the city’s problems.

B. Ethnic Tensions: Karachi is known for its ethnic diversity, but political instability has sometimes fueled ethnic tensions, leading to violence and disruptions in daily life.

C. Corruption: Corruption within the bureaucracy can hinder development projects and the equitable distribution of resources.

VII. Crime and Security

Crime and security issues in Karachi are a concern for students and residents alike:

A. Street Crimes: Incidents of street crimes, such as theft and muggings, can make students and their families anxious about their safety.

B. Extortion: Some businesses and individuals face extortion threats, impacting their ability to operate freely.

C. Impact on Education: Security concerns can disrupt education, making it difficult for students to attend school or college regularly.

VIII. Environmental Degradation

Karachi’s environment is deteriorating rapidly, which can have long-term consequences for students:

A. Air Pollution: High levels of air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, affecting students’ health and concentration in school.

B. Coastal Degradation: Karachi’s coastline is under threat due to industrial pollution and unplanned development, impacting its natural beauty and ecosystem.

C. Climate Change: Karachi is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including extreme weather events and sea-level rise, which can have far-reaching consequences for students’ lives.

IX. Educational Challenges

Finally, Karachi faces unique educational challenges:

A. Limited Access: Many children in the city, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, struggle to access quality education due to a lack of schools and resources.

B. Quality of Education: Even when schools are available, the quality of education varies widely, affecting students’ academic development.

C. Digital Divide: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the digital divide in Karachi, where many students lacked access to online learning resources.

In conclusion, Karachi, Pakistan’s largest and most populous city, faces a multitude of interconnected problems that affect students and residents of all ages. These problems include overpopulation, traffic congestion, infrastructure decay, water and energy shortages, political instability, crime and security issues, environmental degradation, and educational challenges. Solving these issues requires concerted efforts from government authorities, civil society, and citizens. It is crucial for students to be aware of these problems and actively engage in finding solutions, as they represent the city’s future. Karachi’s challenges are immense, but with the right approach and commitment, they can be overcome to create a better and more livable city for all its residents.

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Essay On Problems Of Karachi – The City Of Lights (200 & 500 Words)

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, faces numerous problems that have made life difficult for its residents. One of the major problems is the deteriorating law and order situation. Crime, violence, and terrorism are rampant, making it challenging to maintain peace and stability. This has created a sense of fear and insecurity among the citizens.

Essay On Problems Of Karachi 200 words

Another issue is the inadequate supply of necessities like water, electricity, and gas. Karachi is known for its scorching heat, and the frequent power outages and water shortages only add to the people’s misery. Furthermore, the lack of proper infrastructure has led to traffic congestion, making commuting a nightmare for the residents.

The pollution level in Karachi is also alarming, with the air and water quality being severely affected. The city produces enormous waste, often in landfills, causing environmental hazards.

Education and healthcare are other significant challenges facing Karachi. Despite having several schools and hospitals, the quality of education and healthcare is below par, and medical treatment costs are high.

In conclusion, the problems facing Karachi are numerous and complex. The government needs to take immediate and effective steps to address these issues, improve the living conditions of its residents, and restore the city’s glory.

Essay On Problems Of Karachi 500 words

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, is facing many problems affecting its citizens’ lives in numerous ways. Despite being the economic hub of Pakistan , the city is grappling with a host of issues ranging from infrastructure to security and health to education. In this essay, we will take a closer look at some of the problems of Karachi and their impact on the lives of its citizens.

One of the most pressing issues in Karachi is the state of its infrastructure. The city is notorious for its congested roads, broken footpaths, and dilapidated buildings. The transportation system is in shambles, with buses and trains running behind schedule, and the lack of proper public transport has forced many residents to rely on their vehicles. The result is a massive traffic jam that makes commuting to work or school a nightmare.

Another issue plaguing Karachi is the high crime rate. The city is known for being unsafe, and street crime, burglary, and car theft are common. The police force is often criticized for its inability to curb crime, and many citizens feel left to fend for themselves. As a result, many people live in fear, and the lack of security has deterred foreign investment.

The health sector in Karachi is also in a sorry state. The city lacks adequate medical facilities, and many hospitals are overcrowded and understaffed. The shortage of doctors and nurses has resulted in long waiting times, and patients often have to wait hours to receive treatment. This has led to an increase in the mortality rate, particularly among children and the elderly.

The education system in Karachi is also facing numerous challenges. Government schools are often overcrowded, and the quality of education is poor. Many schools lack basic facilities such as clean drinking water, sanitation, and electricity. As a result, many parents are forced to send their children to private schools, often unaffordable for the poor. This has created a stark divide between the rich and the poor and contributed to the rising illiteracy rate.

The environmental degradation of Karachi is another issue that has serious consequences. The city grapples with issues like air and water pollution, deforestation, and waste disposal. The unchecked growth of industries has led to air pollution, while the lack of proper sewage systems has resulted in contaminated water. The unplanned expansion of the city has also led to deforestation, further aggravating the situation.

In conclusion, Karachi is a city that is facing a multitude of problems. The issues discussed above are just a few of the many challenges that the city is grappling with. The government needs to take urgent action to address these issues and provide its citizens with a better quality of life. There is a need for a comprehensive plan that addresses issues such as infrastructure, security, health, education, and the environment. Only then can Karachi truly become the thriving metropolis that it has the potential to be.

Here are some possible FAQs about the city of Karachi:

• What is the capital city of the Pakistani province of Sindh? Karachi is the capital city of Sindh province.
• What is the population and rank of Karachi in Pakistan and the world? Karachi has a population of over 20 million and is the largest city in Pakistan and 12th largest in the world.
• What is the estimated GDP of Karachi as of 2021? Karachi has an estimated GDP of over $200 billion (PPP) as of 2021.
• What are some of the nicknames of Karachi? Karachi is also known as City of the Quaid, Paris of the East, City of Lights, and Bride of the Cities.
• What is the name of the international airport and rapid transit system in Karachi? Karachi has Jinnah International Airport (KHI) and Karachi Breeze as its airport and transit system.
• What are some of the ancient names of Karachi? Some of the ancient names of Karachi are Krokola, Barbarikon, Nawa Nar, Rambagh, Kurruck, Karak Bander, Auranga Bandar, Minnagara, Morontobara, Kalachi, Kalachi-jo-Goth, Banbhore, Debal, Barbarice, and Kurrachee.
• What are some of the archaeological sites in Karachi from the Indus Valley civilisation period? Some of the archaeological sites in Karachi from the Indus Valley civilisation period are Ahladino, Pir Shah Jurio, and Banbhore.
• Who was the first Muslim conqueror who led his force into Sindh from the port of Debal in Karachi? Muhammad bin Qasim was the first Muslim conqueror who led his force into Sindh from the port of Debal in Karachi in AD 712.
• What was the name of the place where Alexander camped to prepare a fleet for Babylon after his campaign in the Indus Valley? The name of the place where Alexander camped to prepare a fleet for Babylon was Krokola, which is located near modern Karachi.
• What are some of the major landmarks and attractions in Karachi? Some of the major landmarks and attractions in Karachi are Mazar-e-Quaid (the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah), Hawke’s Bay Beach, Frere Hall, Karachi Port Trust Building, Mohatta Palace, Port of Karachi, National Museum of Pakistan, Clifton Beach, Empress Market, and Karachi Zoo.

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Sana Mursleen is a student studying English Literature at Lahore Garrison University (LGU). With her love for writing and humor, she writes essays for Top Study World. Sana is an avid reader and has a passion for history, politics, and social issues.

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Problems and solution for Karachi

While law and order situation in Pakistan’s mega city, Karachi, is much better and improved than ever before, largely due to effective ‘Karachi operation’, and the world has now considered it among the safe cities.

Karachi has three major problems, crime, terrorism, political injustice and despite been an economic hub, never got its due share.

If we really want to sustain the peaceful atmosphere in Karachi, it is very important that in addition to law and order, city’s core issue need to be addressed and we are still far from it, which has made this city of over 20 million, unmanageable and yet, no one ready to ‘own’ this city, but, everyone looking for its ‘share’.

It is time that we must stop looking at Karachi, only from an ethnic perspective or as a city of one party or one group. What the political leadership and government need to understand is that the city is also the provincial capital of Sindh. Question is why Karachi cannot become Lahore or Islamabad?

The city like Karachi cannot be ruled the way it is being governed for the past 70 years. Though, it is history now but shifting federal capital from Karachi to Islamabad was perhaps the biggest disservice to Karachi and with the people of Sindh.

Influx of population from other cities has always been a good sign provided the city is planned, accordingly. Ownership of the Karachi has been the biggest problem due to which successive governments never took keen interest in developing its commercial hub, which provide over 70 percent revenue even in worst conditions. The dilemma is that we as a nation never did to the city, which has been backbone of our economy, which gave birth to negative trends both in politics and governance.

Today, the city is nearly unmanageable and if we fail to find a solution it would soon be, ungovernable. So, what is the solution to the problem and why successive government failed, resulting in the birth of a party like the MQM. Whether the party will survive or die, but, if the problem remains unresolved it may lead to another kind of unrest, which may be uncontrollable.

Solution to Karachi must be addressed above all political and ethnic dispensation. Serious doubts have been created during 2017 Census and even independent observers expressed doubt over the census results. By not giving the true picture of its population is yet another biased approach towards its own economic hub. The observers believe the city has the population of over 20 million.

Therefore, this approach needs to be changed if we are really sincere in addressing Karachi problems.

(1) Determine the exact population of Karachi and prepare the ‘master plan’, accordingly without which you cannot give due share for city’s development.

(2) Give Karachi, the status of a metropolitan city with all its manifestation like all metropolis or mega cities around the world.

(3) Whether through direct election or existing local bodies system, the elected mayor

should be the ‘father’ of the whole city and not merely 34 percent.

(4) Karachi must have its own police commissioner and localised police system, above all political and ethnic consideration with zero political interference.

(5) Promote the culture of merit, both in jobs and education.

(6) Make Karachi hub of cultural activities and though institutions like Arts Council of Karachi, and NAPA playing its role much more is needed. City needs plan and not unplanned ‘food streets’.

(7) It is time for the complete revival of Karachi’s playgrounds and parks. Some 80 percent of these grounds and parks have been ‘sold’.

(8) Through a well-planned conspiracy over the years, there is a big scam in the rising ‘Katchi Abadis’, which are now nearly 7,000.

(9) Terrorism and law and order, is only one aspect of the problem and the city cannot run for decades under ‘Rangers or para-military” or through unfinished operation. It requires a lasting political solution and a will to address the issue. Therefore, the role of the federal as well as Sindh governments is the key. But, they need to look to the solution above ‘ethnic-biased’, which is something missing.

(10) Karachi need ‘Karachi Action Plan’, after Karachi operation and that too on fast pace. Can you imagine a metropolitan city without a ‘master plan’ for almost 40 years and even the one prepared lack the vision. The city, which once was governed under Karachi Development Authority, KDA, had now been divided and sudden expansion of Cantonment Board and Defense Housing Authority, DHA, further aggravated the situation.

Due to massive corruption, Karachi’s major development projects take from 10 years to 40 years like Karachi Mass Transit, KMT, Karachi Circular Railway, Lyari Expressway and as a result the solution becomes problem. This is exactly what is going on in Karachi and except for one or two, all its flyovers, underpasses reflect work of most incompetent engineers, who lacked vision. Yet, they become millionaires and billionaires with the passage of time.

Unfortunately, every party and group as well as governments and establishment are waiting for the ‘final fall of the MQM’, in all its form and manifestations. The MQM may survive or die a natural or unnatural death, but, if the problem in urban Sindh exists, it may give birth to another party like the MQM, in future.

It took almost four decades before much controversial ‘quota system’, abolished in 2013. I always believe that the idea behind the system adopted during Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s government was not bad in uplifting the Sindhi middle class and deprived section of the society, but, it was badly implemented and laid the foundation of Mohajir politics.

He only wanted quota system for 10 years but, successive governments used it for ‘politician reasons’, which further created the gulf and sadly, never tried to uplift the education system in rural areas, resulting in complete decline of education and merit culture in whole Sindh.

Karachi’s problem aggravated because no ruler tried to bridge the ‘rural-urban’ divide. On the contrary, the successive rulers politicised the issue and created further division for political reasons. Unfortunately, the thinking has not changed as yet and we have not even able to differentiate between Karachiites and Mohajirites. Treating whole Karachi with a particular mindset has always been key to the problem.

If Gen Zia and former president Pervez Musharraf used Mohajirs for their political gains, the PPP governments could become the real stakeholder of this city had it owned the city instead of treating it with biased approach.

The PPP has a role to play and can win over the city if they work on abovementioned proposals. The dilemma of our political parties had been their neglect towards promoting local government system. Instead of empowering local governments, giving them financial and administrative powers, the provincial governments want to ‘control’ the system, directly.

Karachi is Sindh and there is no doubt about it. Therefore, the government needs to treat it as its ‘face’ for the world. Sindh is lucky that this city is a commercial and economic hub of the country. Yet, no one is ready to take its ownership. This in itself reflects bias and no wonder why Karachi witnessed ethnic, sectarian and political violence which resulted in killing of thousands of people.

The writer is the senior columnist and analyst of Geo, The News and Jang  

Twitter: @MazharAbbasGeo

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Karachi, the city of lights  

 Karachi is the largest city of Pakistan and the seventh major city in the world and is also known as the city of lights. It is now under the darkness of its spoiled infrastructure. Karachi the cosmopolitan and metropolitan city of Pakistan generates almost 70 percent of the federal revenue of Pakistan and it is the economic hub of the country having an estimated GDP of $114 billion in 2014.

Karachi also has geographical importance as besides the Arabian sea and the two major ports Bin Qasim and Port of Karachi. It has one of the busiest airports in the world Jinnah International Airport. The infrastructure of Karachi is getting worst every day. The broken roads and traffic jam is the most concerning issue in Karachi. The worst situation of traffic makes

it impossible for one to reach the destination on time and broken roads cause serious road accidents. Karachi needs serious attention and proper management to urbanize and build the proper infrastructure for the metropolis.

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‘The Fear Is Palpable’: Karachi’s Law and Order Problem

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While terrorist attacks make headlines, Pakistan’s financial capital has a more mundane problem: deadly street crime.

Paramilitary soldiers stand guard along road side to ensure security in Karachi, Pakistan, April 9, 2024.

In Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling financial capital, the daily news is often grim. Reports of citizens shot dead while resisting muggings and suspected robbers lynched have become disturbingly common.

Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, Karachi was referred to as the “City of Lights” in the 1960s and 1970s because of its vibrant nightlife. However, ethnic and political conflict from the 1980s onward earned the city a spot on the list of the most dangerous cities. In 2014, the city ranked as the world’s sixth-most dangerous city for crime.

Over time, the increased police and paramilitary presence and security operations have made the city safer. In 2013, the Karachi Operation was launched in response to years of criminal, religious, and political violence. The campaign against crime and terrorism was authorized by the civilian government and led by the Pakistan Army and intelligence agencies. The Sindh Rangers, a special paramilitary force granted special policing powers to arrest and investigate criminals involved in targeted killings, kidnappings, terrorism, and extortion, led the operation. These measures drastically improved the law and order situation in the city, which accounts for around a quarter of Pakistan’s GDP.

Still, Pakistan’s commercial center remains marred by surging crime rates as the law and order situation deteriorates. In the last three years, more than 250 citizens were shot dead by street criminals and 1,052 were wounded. In 2024 alone, according to police data, 33 people were shot dead resisting robberies up to March 28. However, independent institutions’ reports suggest a higher figure: more than 50 people killed by robbers during the same period.

Karachi ranked 169th out of a total of 173 cities on the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index in 2023. The index examines how cities around the world are recovering after the COVID-19 pandemic and rates them in five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Karachi has an overall score of 42.5 out of 100 – a far cry from top performer Vienna, which scored 98.4. It scored the lowest on stability, with a 20, unchanged from 2022. 

Skyrocketing inflation and growing economic difficulties in the last three years are cited as reasons for the increase in violent street crimes.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed deep concern over the law and order situation, stating that it has “deteriorated alarmingly.”

“The underlying factors such as economic desperation and unemployment need to be addressed urgently as well,” it said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) while demanding the immediate restoration of law and order to ensure the rights of life and security for the citizens of Karachi.

Despite high-level meetings chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari issuing directives to take strict action against street criminals and the Sindh High Court’s Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi ordering law enforcement agencies to launch a crackdown on criminals, the law and order situation in the city has kept citizens anxious about their safety.

Ayesha Mirza is a 24-year-old journalist who lives in Karachi. Some of her earliest memories include getting mugged with her family – the first time when she was only 7 years old and again when she was 12.

“It is a constant topic of conversation. When one sees a motorcyclist or someone approaching them, it makes one jumpy and scared. One is constantly thinking about their safety,” Mirza told The Diplomat.

For her, as a woman, getting her phone snatched is more than an inconvenience; it is a primary concern for her digital safety. “It has my data, my private photos, and online banking, so there’s a lot more at risk than just the monetary loss,” she said.

When commuting to her workplace, Mirza is constantly calculating and analyzing the likelihood of becoming a victim of street crime if she takes a particular route.

“The majority of the people do not have the privilege or option to decide what areas to avoid and when to commute, especially if they have work or their homes in what have become street crime hotspots. Those people, in particular, experience heightened fear and paranoia,” she explained.

Living in a city with high crime rates and being a victim from early childhood has left a deep mark on Mirza – she still has nightmares about being mugged. “The fear is palpable and ever-present, especially now when there have been incidents where robbers have shot people even after one has given them everything without resistance.”

Muhammad Hanif, a 60-year-old shop owner, has seen Karachi at its best and worst times. “No one is safe in Karachi anymore, and we’re only living on God’s mercy. Instead of dealing with criminals, police are involved in getting bribes from business owners in the bazaar,” he told The Diplomat. A year ago, someone was murdered in front of Hanif’s eyes in the market over a feud.

Shop owners in the market have started to shut down their businesses early to avoid being mugged.

Muhammad Ahmed, 30, who owns a store selling cosmetic products, used to keep his shop open until late at night before concerns about safety forced him to rethink that approach. “Many customers would shop late, but after a couple of months, I started shutting down the store around 9 p.m,” he said.

Ahmed Baloch, 37, who owns a garment shop in Bohri Bazaar, has been a victim of street crimes more than once. Seven years ago, his bike, which he bought after saving 45,000 rupees (roughly $160), was snatched at gunpoint, and five months ago, his mobile phone was taken.

“I carry a few hundred rupees with me now and have switched to a keypad phone,” he told The Diplomat.

Despite efforts to improve security, Karachi, a vibrant city that hosts hundreds of thousands of migrants from all over Pakistan and serves as the financial hub, remains gripped by a surge in violent street crimes. To ensure the safety of its residents, it is essential that the provincial government takes urgent and sustained actions. 

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Women in the palestine-israel conflict: agents of change, harris vs. trump: what pakistani-americans think, gems and minerals, thai food festival islamabad launched in capital’s top hotel, federal govt committed to welfare of artistes: farah diba, pa speaker, ministers review ruda’s strategic initiatives, future plans, wco, psw collaborate to align national trade data with international standards, zimbabwe to cull 200 elephants amid food shortages, iran says new research satellite launched into orbit: report, moscow will never prevail in ukraine war, says biden, us, uk nationals among 37 sentenced to death for attempted congo…, about 560 000 children vaccinated in first round of anti-polio drive…, rs1.07bn released to sports federations, associations over last 5 years by…, asian champions trophy: pakistan beat japan 2-1 to register first win, champions one-day cup final squads confirmed, shoaib malik, muhammad hafeez among other international stars to play us…, pakistan claims fifth world youth scrabble title with affan salman’s win, problems faced by the karachiites.

I am a student of the University of Karachi doing my BS in Mass Communication. I am sending you a letter on “Problems faced by the Karachiites” which is obliged to be published in your paper.

Karachi, the largest city of Pakistan both in area and population. Once, it was the province of Pakistan but now it is the province of Sindh. The city has economical as well as geographical importance having two largest seaports and its location on Arabian Sea. Generating the most of the revenue (70%) for the country and paying the highest tax to the Government of Pakistan.

Karachi is one of the world’s fastest growing cities but its problems are also growing with the same manner. Pollution, traffic, water, electricity are the major issues faced by the Karachites. The bad conditions of the roads cause a lot of inconvenience to the people, causing traffic jams and frequent accidents. In the recent times of 2020, Karachi faced huge destruction due to the heavy monsoon rains. There was no proper system of sewerage, roads were flooded terribly. The authorities proved to be a total failure for the residents of Karachi. The awful conditions of public transport make the journey more exhausting. They are often operated by the reckless drivers who don’t even follow the traffic rules of the roads. With such a big population there is no proper means of transportation. Garbage and rubbish can be seen everywhere, making the environment polluted. The massive electricity crisis has crippled life in Karachi. The power breakdown of 10-12 hours is faced mostly without being announced to the residents. Especially in summers and in the month of Ramzan Kareem load shedding is to be considered as a habitual issue. Water is also not provided properly to every citizen. There are a lot of water mafias, who charge so much money for the water which is directed to be supplied to the citizens without payment. The concerned authorities are therefore requested to look into these matters without any further delay and take suitable steps to solve these problems.

Numaira Mir

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Blood on the street: violence, crime, and policing in Karachi

Vanda Felbab-Brown

Introduction

With 56 percent of the world’s population today living in urban spaces and 70 percent projected to do so by 2050,[1] major cities of the world play an ever-larger role in the 21 st century global system, power distribution, and public policies. Decisions of city governments significantly influence major transnational issues—from climate change, global financial and trade patterns, to poverty alleviation, disease mitigation and refugee flows. More than ever, a country’s governing capacity and the legitimacy of its government are shaped by how it suppresses crime and delivers order in urban areas, a major challenge for many countries.[2] Many cities in Africa and Latin America struggle to deliver effective public security, despite receiving significant international assistance. Much less policy and academic focus has been devoted to urban public order management in Asia, including specifically Karachi, even though the city is a major world megapolis, a significant global hub of legal and illegal trade, and source of transnational and local violence, including terrorism. 

Based on fieldwork I conducted in Karachi in 2016 and supplemented by subsequent remote interviews, this article analyzes the sources of insecurity and violence in Karachi since the 1990s, focusing especially on the period between 2008 and 2023. Through interviews with security and police officials, military and paramilitary forces officers, politicians, civil society and business community representatives, members of criminal gangs, and security experts, the article assesses the effectiveness of anti-crime measures adopted in the city. Examining what has worked well and what policies have been deficient is a valuable source of lessons for other countries. It is also important because crime and terrorism are again rising in Karachi, the city’s residents are demanding better public safety.

For decades, and intensely so over the past twenty years, Karachi has struggled with violence, insecurity, and criminality. The city governments as well as Pakistan’s national authorities have at times either yielded or purposefully outsourced the delivery of order, safety, and other public goods to nonstate armed actors. The provision of these essential services by Karachi’s criminal and militant groups has thus regularly outcompeted their provision by the state, with the city’s nonstate armed actors hence acquiring significant political capital with Karachi’s residents.

From 2008 to 2015, the megapolis of between 20 million and 25 million people and Pakistan’s most important economic engine, experienced a particularly intense wave of violence. Homicides surpassed 2,000 a year, with war-like firearm exchanges on the streets. Extortions and kidnappings skyrocketed. Both the poor and the affluent were significantly affected. Many businesses shut down, and wealthy elites moved away. The local and federal government scrambled for a response.

For decades, police forces in Karachi have been under-resourced, incompetent, corrupt, politicized, and infiltrated by criminal groups. The justice system in the city—as well as nationally—suffers many deficiencies. Thus, to bring violence down, the local, state, and federal governments have repeatedly deployed official paramilitary forces to address the violence.

And indeed, in important ways, government policies did manage to suppress crucial aspects of violence, most importantly homicides. But other types of crime, terrorism, and militancy continue to be a challenge, and policing remains problematic and inadequate.[3] Moreover, the costs of the adopted law enforcement patterns have been severe in terms of civil liberties and human rights. The paramilitary forces, the Sindh Rangers, like the police in the city, turned out to be highly violent and perpetrated extensive and serious human rights violations.

In response to the criminal, political, ethnic, and terrorist violence, Karachi’s business community and civil society also mobilized. Going far beyond the civil society assistance to police forces found, for example, in Colombia’s Medellín, Brazil’s Sao Paulo, or Mexico’s Ciudad Juárez, Karachi’s business community established an essentially private police force with an extraordinary scope of activities. In contrast, the civil society activism emerged primarily against and as a result of the state repression of the Pashtun minority that suffered from law enforcement’s dragnets.

Yet a decade later, the paramilitary forces remain the principal policing force in the city. And their activities have gone far beyond their official mandate to combat violence. Supported by other law enforcement actors in the city, the Rangers have completely redesigned the political landscape of Karachi, selectively dismantling some political parties through the arrests of their members, while extra-legally empowering and privileging other parties. They have also increased their involvement in the city’s public management as well as its illegal economies, such as land grabbing and the criminalized delivery of services, including water.

Armed Security Karachi, Credit:  Benny Lin ,  CC BY-NC 2.0

The Context

Between 2010 and 2015, violence in Karachi reached dramatic levels. In 2012, 2,174 were reported killed;[4] escalating to a record 2,700 in 2013. These deaths included targeted killings by political parties; warfare by and among jihadists; and murders by organized crime groups, often linked to politicians and political parties. Compounding the sense of insecurity was a dramatic terrorist attack on Karachi’s airport in July 2014.[5] By 2017, homicides, targeted killings, terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and extortions perpetrated by non-state actors declined by as much as 90 percent in the various categories. What explains the decline?

For decades, Karachi has been experiencing a dramatic, uncontrolled population growth, expanding from a mere 435,0000 residents in the early 1940s to some 25 million today.[6] The city’s historic and changing ethnic composition and demographics have shaped its economic development, urban planning, and governance—as well as its instability, violence, and organized crime.

One facet of Karachi is its economic power. With its large financial, textile, and manufacturing sectors, Karachi generates approximately 50 percent of Pakistan’s economic revenue (about $290 billion annually) and 90 percent of the province of Sindh.[7] It also handles 95 percent of Pakistan’s foreign trade and 30 percent of its manufacturing. It is the seat of Pakistan’s economic elite, with 90 percent of the headquarters of Pakistani banks, financial institutions, and multinational corporations located in Karachi.[8]

Another facet of Karachi is its privation: Some 70 percent of Karachi residents are poor, with half of the population living in squatter settlements known as katchi abadis .[9] These informal settlements mostly lack pumped water, sewage, and formal legal electricity hookups.[10]

Karachi’s decades-long poor exclusionary governance has eviscerated the city’s planning, organizational capacities, and provision of public goods. Instead, the delivery of public goods has, to a large extent, become privatized. Both in the public and private domains, or when delivered by what Karachi residents call mafias —a combination of organized crime groups and politicians—the delivery of essential services is politicized. The deep ethnic rivalries generating community competition over legal and illegal rents and bureaucratic appointments have resulted in and often purposefully generated and utilized criminal and street violence.

Drivers of violence

Waves of violence in Karachi, including the 2010-2013 iteration, have been driven by multiple factors: inter-communal hostility provoked and exploited by the campaigns of ethnically-oriented politicians and political parties; violence by the state, exacerbated by the weakness of the city’s police; organized crime and political competition over illicit economies and the provision of public services in the city; and the belligerence of jihadi militants and terrorists.

Political Parties            

Much of Karachi’s violence results from the strategic use of violence by ethnically-based political parties to secure electoral votes, government appointments, and economic rents. Between 2007 and 2013, almost all of the city’s ethnic groups and their political parties engaged in violence against their political, ethnic, and business opponents, resulting in the deaths of over 7,000 people.[11]      

The political-ethnic violence has often taken place between the Mohajirs and the Sindhis and between the Mohajirs and the Pashtuns and Baloch. The Mohajirs (literally refugees) are the Urdu-speaking migrants from India and their descendants. The 1947 partition of India that gave birth to Pakistan resulted in millions of Mohajirs arriving in the city. Almost overnight their influx reversed the ethnic balance in the city, shrinking the percentage of the previously dominant Sindhis from 60 to 14 percent (and less than 10 percent today) and increasing the presence of the Mohajirs from a mere 6 percent to well over 54 percent.[12] The Mohajirs stacked the city’s government institutions and bureaucratic appointments with their ethnic brethren, creating deep-seated resentment of the Sindhis and setting up a perpetual battle between the city’s government and the Sindhi-dominated provincial government. The Sindhis are still dominant in the rural areas of the Sindh Province of which Karachi is the capital.

Federal politics have shaped Karachi’s endless ethnic rivalries. The 1970s government of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, with his Pakistan People Party (PPP), favored the Sindhis, while the military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq (1977-1988) sought to weaken the PPP by supporting the creation of a Mohajir political party, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM).[13] General Pervez Musharraf similarly sought to use the MQM to subjugate the PPP.[14] Indeed, Pakistan’s military has applied the same rule-and-divide strategy in Karachi that it uses throughout the country—at various times using the MQM to undermine the PPP’s  attempt to weaken the military’s dominance of Pakistan’s politics and governance and at other times, such as in the 2010s and 2020s, turning on the MQM.

The political competition unleashed repeated violence in Karachi during the 1980s and 1990s as the Mohajirs sought to control governing structures and appointments – including, the lucrative Karachi Port Trust, Karachi Municipal Corporation and Karachi Development Authority—and the resulting patronage and votes. To obtain these rents and political capital, they often used street violence by armed wings.[15]

Since the 1980s, many Pakistani Pashtun migrants and Afghan refugees further altered Karachi’s ethnic balance and its power conflicts. By 2025, Pashtuns are projected to outnumber the Mohajirs,[16] yet they are the most politically and economically marginalized ethnic group in Karachi. While the Mohajir-Sindhi violence declined in the 1990s, ethnic violence escalated between the Mohajirs and Pashtuns and Balochs, particularly after the 2008 elections.[17]

In addition to having their own armed wings, the political parties established clientelistic relationships and alliances with organized crime groups to secure votes and engage in extortion and racketeering in the city, known in Karachi as the bhatta economy.

Illicit Economies, Criminal Groups, and Politics

As a crucial global port and gateway to Pakistan and Afghanistan, and a megacity of many unemployed, Karachi is also, not surprisingly, a significant hub of illicit economies and organized crime. The city’s crime economy overall is estimated at a $3 billion annually[18] and features drug trafficking,[19] arms smuggling, human smuggling, timber trafficking, extortion, gambling, and kidnapping as well as a variety of other predatory crimes.[20]  These illicit economies are to various degrees dominated by organized crime or militant groups.

The under-delivery and privatization of basic services have provided further opportunities for criminalization and violence as well as extensive connections to politics. Informal and outright illicit economies and extensive theft have emerged in land access, electricity and water delivery,[21] as well as transportation. These illicit economies are run by organized crime groups connected to politicians and political parties – networks to which Karachi residents refer to as “mafias.”

Access to land is a prime example of such politically-linked criminalization. Both public and private land is frequently stolen and usurped by criminals, politicians, and/or state agents such as the Sindh Rangers and the military, whether directly by them or through proxies for their benefit. It is also taken over the city’s many squatters.[22] Land has thus become the city’s most prized and contested commodity, with federal, provincial, and local land-owning agencies, military cantonments, corporate entities and formal and informal developers fighting for land rights.[23]

Public transportation is largely defunct. Medical services are equally underprovided, delivered to many by charities or Islamist parties and the political proxies of Jihadist groups, such as Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (after state pressure renamed Jammat-ud-Dawa). In the political contestation surrounding the 2008 elections, the PPP and MQM used their political heft to get access for their clients to the city’s hospitals and clinics.[24] Meanwhile, the rich receive their medical treatment in Dubai, London, or the United States.

Many criminal groups in Karachi are ethnically based and have close, if complex, relations with the political party of their ethnicity. The Peoples Aman Committee (PAC) gang operating in the Lyari subdivision of Karachi is a prime example of these dynamics. For years, in addition to running its own criminal rackets such as drug trafficking and extortion, the PAC would also do some of the dirty work of its political patron, the PPP.  At the same time, the PAC sought to cultivate the Karachi’s top police officials and corrupt Sindh Rangers as well as business and political elite even while extorting them.[25]

But like many other criminal gangs and militant groups,[26] the PAC sought to build its political capital with local populations by investing some of its proceeds from its criminal activities in public welfare schemes.[27] Following a major 2011 battle with the Karachi police during which not just the PAC, but the entire Lyari subdivision were de facto starved in a siege, the PAC also came to distribute water and food to Lyari’s residents. It also regulated street crime in the subdivision by advancing its own rackets. Under the PAC rule, carjacking, cellphone snatching, and robberies decreased compared to previous periods and other parts of the city.[28] The PAC supported and sponsored NGOs seeking to bring hospitals and schools to Lyari, one symbolically located in a gang’s former torture house.[29] In contrast, between 2001 and 2008 when MQM’s political power was high during the presidency of Gen. Pervez Musharraf, nothing had been built in Lyari. The discrimination was a blatant retaliation by the Mohajir MQM against the Sindhis.

But with its own political capital rising, the PAC started chaffing at the bid of its political patron, the PPP. It began cutting significantly into the PPP’s electoral base and challenging its orders.[30] While once essentially subservient to the politicians, the PAC crime gang began dictating the terms to the PPP, such as by selecting its own PPP candidates for the subdivision. [31]

Jihadist Militancy and Sectarian Conflict

Multiple highly dangerous jihadist terrorist groups operate in the city, compete over turf and illicit rackets, fundraise, organize violent operations, and take shelter from operations by the Pakistani military during occasional periods when the military decides to confront some of them as opposed to mostly coddling them.[32] The anti-India and Kashmir-focused Laskhar-e-Tayyaba (LeT)/ Jammat-ud-Dawa (that carried out the 2008 attack on Mumbai’s Taj Mahal hotel and other sites and killed over 160 people) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (that, along w LeT, carried out the 2001 attack on India’s parliament) and the anti-Shia Lashkar-e-Jhangvi have used the city as a crucial base for decades. They are extensively linked to the city’s many madrasas (Islamic schools). Sectarian violence between Pakistan’s predominant Sunni majority and Shia minority was unleashed in the 1980s by the Zia regime’s Islamization policies that patronized Deobandi extremist groups as a means of internal control and a counter to Shia mobilization after Iran’s 1979 Islamic revolution. Stoked by the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran since, the sectarian contestation often explodes into violence in Karachi, where in 2012 and 2013, at least 100 sectarian killings took place each year.[33] After 9-11, Al Qaeda also used Karachi as a key operating area and killed the U.S. Wall Street Journal ’s correspondent Daniel Pearl there.

Among the more recent arrivals, about a decade and half ago, has been the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a terrorist group displaced to Karachi as a result of Pakistan’s military operations in the province of Khyber Pakthunkhwa and previously autonomous tribal areas (now incorporated into KPK). As the presence of TTP in Karachi grew to some 8,000 members in 2013, so did violence.[34] Although also predominantly Pahstun, the TTP intensely focused violence on the anti-militant Pashtun party Awami National Party (ANP). By the end of 2013, the TTP’s violent actions had forced the ANP to close down 70 percent of its offices in the city.[35] In fact, in the runup to the 2013 elections, the TTP ratcheted up violence against all political parties that opposed it, attempting to prevent them from campaigning.[36]

In addition to targeting the ANP and other political parties, TTP also sought to take over various of the city’s illicit economies and rackets, such as land theft and control, and aggressively moved into extortion. Moving into extortion in revenue-rich Karachi allowed the TTP to move beyond inefficient bank robberies, one of its initial funding approaches. Neighborhoods, such as Lyari, became war zones and no-go zones for the state. Gang or jihadi takeovers of areas displaced male residents, leaving women without protection and economic livelihoods and subject to sexual violence.[37] In addition to fighting organized criminal groups for control over illicit rents, TTP hired local criminals for the same purpose and to finance jihad. In turn, criminals allied with TTP used the alliance to strengthen their hand against local police (mostly in on the illicit take) and criminal rivals.

Policy Responses    

Much of the state’s response to the post-2010 violence in Karachi, as has been the case historically as well, has centered on heavy-handed law enforcement and military crackdowns. Anti-crime socio-economic components or other structural and institutional reforms have been inadequate. Civil society mobilization has played a role in the policy responses, but at times, such mobilization has been heavily skewed toward the interests and safety of the elite.

Law Enforcement

In 2012 and 2013, the Karachi police force found itself unable to cope with the rising violence, extortion, jihadism, and sense of panic in the city. Out of a nominal police force of 29,000 officers, only some 8,000 worked at any one time.[38] Moreover, 162 police officers, including one of Karachi’s top counterterrorism officials, were killed in the city in the first part of 2013[39] severely undermining already poor morale. For decades, the police force in the city (as elsewhere in Pakistan) has also been subject to intense politicization, from the highest senior level appointments to beat cops. It tended to compensate for its lack of investigative and preventative capacities with brutality.

In September 2013, amidst the security crisis, Pakistan’s federal government authorized the deployment of 11,000 paramilitary Sindh Rangers to Karachi, replicating similar policy moves of the 1990s. Nominally under Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior, but following the military’s command, the Rangers were to focus on terrorism, political killings, extortion, and kidnapping for ransom.

Under the 2013 Protection of Pakistan Ordinance, made law in 2014 as the Protection of Pakistan Act,[40] the Rangers were given special powers and authorized to shoot-to-kill, shoot-on-sight, and to detain suspects for 90 days without charge. But they did not have any actual investigation and prosecution mandates, consigned to acting against in flagrante crimes and mounting deterrence patrolling. A subsequent anti-terrorism act, the December 2014 National Action Plan, also expanded the military’s role in internal policing. It shifted counterterrorism judicial processes to the opaque unaccountable military justice system and reversed the burden of proof for alleged terrorists: The accused now had to prove that they were not terrorists.[41] Although the operation was to be time-bound, the Rangers’ mandate was repeatedly extended.

Officially, the law enforcement efforts in Karachi were defined as a targeted operation focusing on a list of 450 designated killers (many hitmen for political parties), terrorists, kidnappers, and leaders of extortion rings. Quickly, however, the law enforcement actions became a much broader dragnet scheme. Between September 2013 and mid-2018, the Rangers claimed to have arrested and handed over to police or the courts almost 11,000 people in 14,327 raids.[42] Yet, many detainees were released without charge; others disappeared, perhaps still held in detention or killed.

The police supplemented those operations with its own repression. The police chief during the Rangers’ initial operations, Superintendent Anwar Ahmed known as Rao Anwar, for example, was notorious for his bloodlust for encounter killings.[43] Senior police officials were also allegedly offering cash rewards to subordinates for extrajudicial killings. In 2017 alone, Karachi police killed “184 criminals and 7,373 terrorists” in 480 police encounters.[44]

The law enforcement operations also sought to establish Ranger and law enforcement presence in areas that became no-go places for the police, such as Lyari. While putting heavy pressure on some criminal gangs, the operations tended to be repressive, abusive, and indiscriminate, often cordoning off large areas, mounting extensive and aggressive house searches, and detaining scores of people. Residents who dared protest against the heavy-handedness or other problematic policies, such as wholesale intimidation of fishermen by law enforcement actors or government seizures of coastal land, were labeled supporters of Lyari gangs or terrorist groups and arrested as well.[45]

MQM became a primary target of the Rangers’ operation. Often without diligent investigations and evidence, the law enforcement forces sought to destroy the armed wings of the party and the party itself through extrajudicial killings and disappearances.[46] Between 2013 and 2017, the bodies of at least 70 MQM male activists were found and more than 120 went missing.[47] The PPP was also targeted, with its members, including prominent officials, arrested on various charges, though to a lesser degree than those of the MQM.

The counterterrorism operations also showed selectivity, prioritizing anti-Pakistan, but not anti-India terrorist groups. Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, al Qaeda, and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi were principally targeted. After LeJ reduced its attacks against India and instead began killing Pakistani security officials, it also came into the Rangers’ crosshairs. Other groups, such as the bloody sectarian Sunni Ahle Sunant Wal Jammat (formerly Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan) and LeT/JD were let off the hook.

But even with its policy selectivity, the Rangers’ overall dragnet approach compounded Pakistan’s long-standing problem: the weakness of prosecution. With the police lacking investigative capacities and the Rangers legal authorization for investigations, torture became a frequent method to extract confessions.  In response to complaints by human rights groups, the Rangers and police claimed that they had no alternative but to kill the alleged terrorists and criminals because the courts would free them otherwise.[48]

Overwhelmed, under-resourced, politicized, and militarized, Pakistan’s justice system regularly features cases not adjudicated for years and sometimes even decades. A popular saying goes: “In Pakistan, you hire a lawyer and buy a judge.”  Only rarely do courts take up human rights protection issues or indict police or Ranger officials for even egregious human rights violations.

While the Rangers’ dragnet was under way, no adequate attempt to reform the police in Karachi or in Sindh was undertaken. Individual police commanders were merely reshuffled among posts, rarely altogether dismissed. In May 2016, the Sindh government authorized the recruitment of 8,000 additional police officers for Karachi to be trained by the army, but only a small portion ended up, in fact, recruited. Many top officers and beat cops continued to embrace highly repressive ways.

While state violence shot up, the violence perpetrated by nonstate actors declined dramatically and swiftly.Targeted killings diminished from 965 in 2013 to two in 2018; reported extortion cases from 1,524 in 2013 to 31 in 2018; and kidnapping for ransom from 174 in 2013 to five in 2018.[49] From January to April 2019, Karachi experienced 12 targeted killings.[50] Yet, the Rangers and police continued to mount raids, such as in Lyari in May 2019. Terrorist incidents also decreased—from a 2015 peak of 199 (when TTP responded to counterterrorism actions with intensified aggression of its own) to 16 in 2016 and zero in 2017.[51] Two significant terrorist incidents, nonetheless, took place in Karachi in 2018.

A problematic side-effect of the operations was the Rangers’ takeover of the city’s various illicit economic rackets. Widespread allegations emerged about the Rangers’ and police role in extortion and illegal appropriation of valuable resources, such as real estate, in their areas of operation.[52] Vendors who had previously paid extortion fees to the MQM now complained that they had to pay much higher rates to the Rangers and police.[53] The Rangers also expanded their already extensive involvement in Karachi’s lucrative water management and illicit water economy, at times alleged to usurp large quantities of water and charge predatory rates.[54] Yet despite the Rangers’ official role in the city’s water management, public access did not improve and by May 2019, Karachi was again in the midst of another water crisis.

The Rangers’ presence in Karachi also became an official drain on the city’s budgets as the Rangers also demanded larger government allocations for their salaries, equipment, schools, and health care.

Civil Society Mobilization

In response to the violence engulfing the city and debilitating business activities of Pakistan’s economic juggernaut, the civil society mobilization featured a mix of business community efforts to protect its economic interests and broader civil rights activism. But the business community’s response went far beyond assisting law enforcement forces in beefing up their capacity as has occurred in Mexico’s Cuidad Juárez, Tijuana, or Monterrey, or Colombia’s Medellín, for example.[55] The business community’s actions amounted essentially to the creation of a private police force for the elite, supplementing and supplanting Karachi’s police. While many elites around the world react to intense urban violence by hiring private security companies, the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), a de facto private elite police unit, stands in a class of its own.                   

The Business Community Response: Private Police and Applause for Repression

Since its establishment in 1989, the CPLC has focused on countering extortion and kidnapping of Karachi’s rich,[56] successfully tackling Karachi’s extortion rackets targeting the affluent during the 1990s and since. However, like other institutions in Karachi, the CPLC was not able to withstand the intensification of political and ethnic divisions in the city.[57] Its effectiveness made it a valuable asset for the city’s political class to seek to appropriate. Thus, in the second half of the 1990s, the CPLC became closely aligned with the MQM.[58]

Even so, the CPLC developed and maintained a highly organized and sophisticated system for tracking criminal activity.[59] Extraordinarily, police stations report their crime statistics to the CPLC on a daily basis. The CPLC has had those statistics computerized since the 1990s, unlike those police who still frequently handle pieces of paper. With a paid staff of 100 and an additional 80 volunteers, the CPLC also has access to cellphone company data, knowing which phone numbers are registered, and claiming to have the capacity to authorize cell phone tracking.[60]   

Not only does the CPLC support the police and cooperate closely with the Rangers, but it also conducts independent investigations and surveillance, such as during anti-kidnapping operations that target the affluent and their political clients, as well as in some homicide investigations. From 1989 to 2017, the CPLC claimed to have handled over 1,300 cases.[61]

The CPLC’s success has consistently won the accolades—and financial support—of the business community. Karachi’s business community has equally praised the military’s and Rangers’ operations in Karachi, despite their extensive human rights abuses.[62]

Pashtun Human Rights Movement

The post-2016 decline in terrorist violence and the weakening of TTP in Karachi did not end the dragnet repression of Pakistani law enforcement against the Pashtun community in the city. Throughout 2017, many Pashtun residents of the city continued to be treated heavy-handedly as terrorist suspects.  In January 2018, four young Pashtun men were killed by Karachi police in an encounter killing and subsequently accused of belonging to a militant group.[63] The operation might easily have turned out to be one of many such encounter killings, but this time, it set off a large-scale human rights mobilization by the Pashtun community—the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM).

The PTM sought to bring some accountability to the pervasive impunity of Pakistani law enforcement forces. For example, in the wake of widespread outrage at the killings, Police Superintendent Anwar Rao was finally indicted on murder charges for his decades-long role in extrajudicial killings and arrested. Yet in January 2023, he was acquitted.[64]

Manipulating Politics: The Elections of Imran Khan

During the post-2013 Karachi operations, Pakistan’s military and its subordinate agencies, such as the Sindh Rangers, took to heart the criticism of their 1990s operations—unless politics in Karachi were cleaned up and defanged of their violent proxies, violence would return. But instead of diligently prosecuting political connections to murders, Pakistan’s military and the Rangers set out to destroy the MQM.

At first, through 2017, the military and Rangers sought to split the MQM and create a new political power in the city around the former MQM mayor Mustafa Kamal. The Rangers and police allegedly pressured MQM members, operatives, and councilors to defect to Mustafa Kamal. Scores of MQM members released from the Rangers’ sometimes prolonged detention, in fact, joined Kamal’s new political party.[65]

But when Kamal failed to attract MQM’s political base and outmaneuver its machinery, the military threw its support behind a different politician in Karachi—Imran Khan. A former world-renowned cricket player and an Oxford playboy, Imran Khan entered Pakistani politics in the 1990s, refashioning himself as a born-again Muslim, religious conservative, and opponent of U.S. military actions in Afghanistan and Pakistan’s cooperation with the United States in counterterrorism operations. For two decades, his political party, Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI), won barely a seat in regional or national elections. But by 2013, Imran Khan’s Pakistan’s PTI gained sufficient support to become Karachi’s second largest party.

During the July 2018 national elections in Pakistan, the military did everything possible to support the PTI and Imran Khan and sabotage the chances of its political rivals.[66] Working also through the Rangers, it put pressure on various politicians and party operatives to defect to the PTI. The military warned journalists and media outlets to cover the PTI, not the MQM.[67] A 2017 gerrymandering census, in which soldiers went door-to-door with census workers, undercounted the city’s population by between five and seven million. Ultimately, the PTI won 116 of the 272 votes in the National Assembly and, as the largest party, formed the government, with Imran Khan becoming prime minister. In Karachi, the PTI, assisted by the Rangers’ muscle, won 14 out of the city’s 21 National Assembly seats—a bruising defeat for the MQM.

 Four years later in 2022, the Pakistani military became frustrated with Imran Khan and helped to orchestrate a no-confidence vote that removed him from power, with various serious legal proceedings against Khan ensuing.

Anti-Crime Socio-Economic Measures

Unlike in various Latin American cities that have grappled with intense criminal violence, no specific anti-crime socio-economic policies accompanied the law enforcement measures. After his election, Imran Khan did promise a series of socio-economic policies to develop Karachi, his critical electoral base. In March 2019, he designated $1.15 billion for the city’s development, specifically ten public transportation projects and seven water delivery projects.[68] Immediately, however, questions arose as to how equitably the projects would be distributed, and whether their implementation would follow Karachi’s typical pattern of rewarding one’s constituents at the expense of ethnic and political rivals.

Meanwhile, Karachi’s MQM mayor, Waseen Akhtar, set out to change Karachi’s Economist ranking as the fourth least livable city in the world[69] by bulldozing Karachi’s informal Empress Market—with the justification that its informal stores and hawkers encroached on public and private property. Across Karachi, some 20 informal markets with over 11,000 shops and stalls were destroyed, affecting the livelihoods of tens of thousands in just two months, between November 2018 and January 2019.[70] Those measures were emblematic of the troubled approaches to socio-economic development in the megapolis. As long as Karachi remains “the drain of Pakistan, where all the poor and displaced wash up,” as a Pakistani security analyst put it,[71] anti-crime socio-economic measures will be drowned by the larger forces of Karachi’s inequality and discriminatory politics.

Did the Outcomes of the Anti-Crime Policies Hold?

Four years later, in 2023, the Sindh Rangers are still deployed to Karachi as the principal anti-crime security agency. Murders have remained at a fraction of their peak a decade earlier—393 in 2021[72] and 387 in 2022.[73] In the first two months of 2023, 29 people were murdered.[74]

In 2022, the Rangers claimed to have conducted 269 operations against terrorism, target killings, kidnapping, and extortion, arresting 65 high-value targets.[75] Many of the key criminal and terrorist groups that had been the key focus for the Rangers in 2013 were still so in 2022: Lyari gangs, MQM, and TTP.

The Rangers also expanded their role in anti-drug operations. But the counternarcotics actions have centered on seizures, rather than a systematical dismantling of drug trafficking networks. Even though Karachi’s drug networks are far less violent than drug trafficking groups in Latin America, they remain a source of homicides and violence. Moreover, the changes to the city’s drug markets—namely, the rise of methamphetamine consumption and trafficking in Karachi, part and parcel of the synthetic drugs revolution sweeping drug markets around the world – pose further risks of homicides spiking as the city’s lucrative drug market is being reshuffled. Significantly, in 2022, the amount of seized crystal methamphetamine (134 kilograms) just slightly surpassed that of heroin (129 kilograms).[76]

Furthermore, in a post-COVID pattern seen around the world, street crime shot up significantly in Karachi after 2020, giving rise to popular dissatisfaction and demands for police action. In 2022, the CPLC, still going strong, reported over 78,000 street crime incidents, noting that the actual number was likely higher, as Karachi residents remained reluctant to approach police and register complaints.[77] In the first 80 days of 2023, the number was 14,000.[78]

Yet once again, Karachi and Sindh authorities, caught up in inter-party rivalries, did not mount intense efforts to reform and strengthen Karachi’s struggling and troubled police. Even though the Sindh Safety and Police Complaints Commission, established in 2019 to improve police accountability and required by law to meet once a month under the chairmanship of the Sindh home minister, remained moribund,[79] the PPP ruling Sindh did not find any major issues with the police.[80] Instead of pushing for meaningful police reform, the PTI wanted to further expand the Sindh Rangers’ extensive powers.[81] Although new legal authorities were not granted, the paramilitary Rangers did enlarge their focus on street crime, including drug retail, extortion, and robberies. In 2022, they reported to have mounted 2,292 such operations.[82]

Karachi’s law enforcement agencies primarily embraced technological fixes, defining an increased use of CCTV cameras as key to controlling crime in the city.[83] But in September 2022, the police launched a special motorcycle branch—the Shaheen Force—to counter the many robberies and killings conducted from motorcycles.

TTP’s attacks in Karachi and elsewhere in Pakistan also went up significantly after 2020. Some of the increased activity preceded the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.[84] But despite the Taliban’s repeated promises not to allow terrorist attacks out of Afghanistan’s territory,[85] TTP has been able to translate its safe havens in eastern Afghanistan into bases for mounting more attacks. Although Pakistan hoped the Taliban would simply shut down TTP, the Taliban, acting principally through the Haqqanis, have instead repeatedly chosen to attempt to broker ceasefires with TTP.[86] But they have not held, and because of its internal entanglements with and debts to the TTP and multiple high costs of fighting the TTP, the Afghan Taliban has not resorted to military action against the TTP despite pressure from Pakistan.[87] In Karachi, in addition to increasing terrorist attacks, including a daring hit against police headquarters in March 2023, the TTP also significantly increased its extortion rackets.[88]

Conclusions       

After 2013, law enforcement forces in Karachi were able to significantly suppress a major flareup of homicides and criminal violence, compounded by political violence, ethnic rivalries, and terrorism. Yet the law enforcement response that centered on paramilitary forces also became the source of violence and human rights violations. Moreover, this pattern of policing also blatantly interfered with and reorganized the political organization of the city—dismantling the existing dominant party and engineering the rise of another political party. While the city’s civil society mobilized in response to the violence, a deeper renegotiation of the flawed social contract remains elusive.

The law enforcement response also succeeded in Karachi only in the narrow sense: suppressing certain types of violence, such as importantly homicides, and terrorist attacks. But it did not fully manage to dismantle criminal networks or illicit economies. The extensive and long-term presence of the Rangers in Karachi and the impunity with which they operated allowed them to muscle in on the city’s illegal economies.

Indeed, while reshuffling the crime and violence market, the anti-crime policies in Karachi failed to include an effective and necessary police reform and address the underlying causes of violence, such as deficiencies and inequity in access to water, infrastructure, and other services. The lack of such services not only alienates local populations from the state, but also continually provides fertile ground for criminal groups to remain intertwined with the city’s bureaucracies and politics.

[1] “Urban Development,” The World Bank, https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/urbandevelopment/overview .

[2] See, for example, Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Bringing the State to the Slum: Confronting Organized Crime and Urban Violence in Latin America,” Brookings Latin America Initiative Paper Series , December 2011, https://www.brookings.edu/research/bringing-the-state-to-the-slum-confronting-organized-crime-and-urban-violence-in-latin-america/ ; and Antonio Sampaio, “Conflict Expansion to Cities.” Armed Conflict Survey . Vol. 5, no. 1, 2019: pp. 21–27.

[3] The first part of this article draws on Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Shoot First, Ask Later: Violence and Anti-crime Policies in Mexico’s Ciudad Juárez and Pakistan’s Karachi,” in Michael Glass, Taylor Seybolt, and Phil Williams, Eds., Urban Violence, Resilience and Security: Governance Responses in the Global South . Northampton, MA: Edward Elgar Publishing, 2022: pp. 138–159.

[4] Citizen-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), statistics on killings in Karachi, provided to author by the CPLC during her May 2016 fieldwork in Karachi and interviews with CPLC staff.

[5] See, for example, “Victor Mallet and Farhan Bokhari, “Karachi: Under Siege.” Financial Times. 26 June 2014, https://www.ft.com/content/e6042de2-fc46-11e3-98b8-00144feab7de .

[6] International Crisis Group (ICG), “Pakistan: Stoking the Fire in Karachi.” Asia Report No. 284 . 15 February 2017, https://icg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/284-pakistan-stoking-the-fire-in-karachi.pdf : p. 2.

[8] Asian Development Bank, “Karachi Mega Cities Preparation Project: Final Report Volume 1,” August 2005, https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-document/69115/38405-pak-dpta.pdf .

[9] Arif Hasan, “Land contestation in Karachi and the impact on housing and urban development.” International Institute for Environment and Development, April 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4540218/pdf/10.1177_0956247814567263.pdf .

[10] See, for example, Vanda Felbab-Brown, “President Obama to Visit a Favela Where Surfacing on Sewage Used to Be a Pass Time.” The Brookings Institution . 17 March 2011, https://www.brookings.edu/opinions/president-obamas-visit-to-a-favela-in-rio-below-the-surface-calm/ ; and Vanda Felbab-Brown, “No Stairway to Heaven: Rescuing Slums in Latin America,” The Brookings Institution. 2 February 2012, https://www.brookings.edu/2012/02/02/no-stairway-to-heaven-rescuing-slums-in-latin-america/ .

[11] Mashail Malik and Niloufer Siddiqui, “Exposure to Violence and Voting in Karachi, Pakistan,” United States Institute of Peace (USIP). Special Report No. 450 . June 2019, https://www.usip.org/sites/default/files/2019-07/sr-450-exposure_to_violence_and_voting_in_karachi_pakistan.pdf

[12] See, for example, Laurent Gayer, “A Divided City: ‘Ethnic’ and ‘Religious Conflicts in Karachi, Pakistan,” Paris: Centre de Recherches Internationales, Sciences Po. May 2003, https://www.sciencespo.fr/ceri/en/content/divided-city-ethnic-and-religious-conflicts-karachi-pakistan

[13] Oskar Verkaaik, A People of Migrants: Ethnicity, State and Religion in Karach i . Amsterdam: VU University Press, 1994.

[14] See, for example, Noman Ahmed, “Micromanaging Karachi,” Dawn . 8 November 2016, https://www.dawn.com/news/1294851 .

[15] See, for example, Samina Ahmed, “Centralization, Authoritarianism, and the Mismanagement of Ethnic Relations in Pakistan,” in Michael E. Brown and Sumit Ganguly, Eds., Government Policies and Ethnic Relations in Asia and the Pacific . Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1997; and Oskar Verkaaik, Migrants and Militants: Fun and Urban Violence in Pakistan . Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2004.

[16] ICG, “Policing Urban Violence in Pakistan.” Report 255 . 23 January 2014, https://www.crisisgroup.org/asia/south-asia/pakistan/policing-urban-violence-pakistan . Overall, the Pashtun represent about 15 percent of Pakistan’s 200 million people.

[17] Nichola Khan, Mohajir Militancy in Pakistan: Violence and Transformation in the Karachi Conflict . New York: Routledge, 2010.

[18] Op. Cit., “Pakistan: Stoking the Fire in Karachi” at Note 6: p. 5.

[19] For details on Pakistan’s poppy cultivation and counternarcotics measures, see Vanda Felbab-Brown; “Pakistan’s Relations with Afghanistan and Implications for Regional Politics.” National Bureau of Asian Research. 14  May 2015, https://www.brookings.edu/articles/pakistans-relations-with-afghanistan-and-implications-for-regional-politics/ ; and Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Pushing Up Poppies: Counternarcotics Measures in Afghanistan Affect Pakistan.” Newsweek Pakistan . 23 September 2010. For smuggling routes in Pakistan, see, Ikramul Haq, “Pak-Afghan Drug Trade in Historical Perspective.” Asian Survey . Vol. 36, no. 10: pp. 945–963, https://www.jstor.org/stable/2645627 .

[20] Nazia Hussain and Louise Shelley, “Karachi: Organized Crime in a Key Megacity.” Connections: The Quarterly Journal. Vol. 15, no. 3, 2016: pp. 5–15, https://www.jstor.org/stable/26326447

[21] Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Water Theft and Water Smuggling: A Growing Problem or Tempest in a Teapot?” The Brookings Institution . March 2017, https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/fp_201703_water_theft_smuggling.pdf .

[22] For which ethnic groups and political parties dominate particular subdivisions, see, for example, Imran Khan, “Karachi’s Crime Changing Face.” Dawn . 25 November 2018, https://www.dawn.com/news/1447410 .

[23] Op. Cit., Hasan at Note 9.

[24] Op. Cit., Gayer at Note 12.

[25]  ibid.

[26] For how criminal groups acquire political capital, see Vanda Felbab-Brown, Shooting Up: Counterinsurgency and the War on Drugs . Washington, DC: The Brookings Institution, 2010.

[27] Op. Cit., Gayer at Note 12.

[28] See Vanda Felbab-Brown, Harold Trinkunas, and Shadi Hamid, Militants, Criminals, and Warlords: The Challenge of Local Governance in an Age of Disorder . Washington, DC: The Brookings Institution, 2018.

[29] Matthieu Aikins, “Gangs of Karachi,” Harper’s Magazine , September 2015, https://harpers.org/archive/2015/09/gangs-of-karachi/.

[30] Fahad Desmukh, “You Are in Islamabad Because of Our Votes’: Interviews with the Lyari PAC.” Third Worldism: Dispatches from the Global South . 3 May 2012, https://thirdworldism.wordpress.com/2012/05/03/you-are-in-islamabad-because-of-our-votes-int/ .

[31] Author’s interviews with political party representatives and police officials, Karachi, May 2016. See also Dina Temple-Raston, “The Tony Soprano of Karachi: Gangster of Politician.” NPR . 2 January  2013, https://www.npr.org/2013/01/02/168197733/the-tony-soprano-of-karachi-gangster-or-politician.

[32] Vanda Felbab-Brown, "Why Pakistan Supports Terrorist Groups, and Why the US Finds it so Hard to Induce Change." The Brookings Institution. 5  January 2018, https://www.brookings.edu/blog/order-fromchaos/2018/01/05/why-pakistan-supports-terrorist-groups-and-why-the-us-finds-it-so-hard-toinducechange/ .

[33] ICG, “Pakistan: Karachi’s Madrasas and Violent Extremism.” Asia Report N°130.  29 March 2007, https://d2071andvip0wj.cloudfront.net/130-pakistan-karachi-s-madrasas-and-violent-extremism.pdf .

[34] Zia-ur-Rehman, “The Pakistani Taliban’s Karachi Network.” CTC Sentinel. Vol. 6, no. 5, May 2013: pp. 1–5, https://ctc.westpoint.edu/the-pakistani-talibans-karachi-network/ .

[35] Op. Cit., “Pakistan: Stoking the Fire in Karachi” at Note 6.

[36] Pak Institute of Peace Studies, “Elections 2013: Violence against Political Parties, Candidates, and Voters.” May 2013, cited at https://www.pakpips.com/web/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/225-1.pdf

[37] Author’s interviews with Karachi’s human rights activities, May 2016.

[38] Author’s interviews with former and current Pakistani police officials and security experts, Karachi and Islamabad, May 2016; and Nathan Hodge and Syed Shoaib Hasan, “Karachi Terror Crackdown Sparks Outcry.” Wall Street Journal. 9  March 2015, https://www.wsj.com/articles/karachi-terror-crackdown-sparks-outcry-1425919728 .

[39] Op. Cit, ICG, “Policing” at Note 16, p. 41.

[40] The Protection of Pakistan Act expired in 2016 and was not renewed.

[41] Author’s interviews with Pakistani civilian justice representatives, human rights activists, and active and retired military officials, Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, May 2016.

[42] Zia Ur-Rehman, “Sindh Rangers Work to Clean Up Violent Karachi.” Pakistan Forward. 6 September 2018, https://pakistan.asia-news.com/en_GB/articles/cnmi_pf/features/2018/09/06/feature-02 .

[44] Karachi police data cited in Meher Ahmad, “The Slain ‘Militant’ Was a Model, and Karachi Police Commander Is Out.” New York Times. 23 January 2018, https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/23/world/asia/karachi-police-rao-anwar-naqeebullah-mehsud.html?smid=tw-share .

[45] “Rangers detain ex-chief of fishermen cooperative for 90 days.” Dawn. 17 March 2016, https://www.dawn.com/news/1246197 .

[46] Op. Cit., “Pakistan: Stoking the Fire in Karachi” at Note 6, p. 14.

[48] Author’s interviews with human rights activists, Karachi, May 2016.

[49] Op. Cit., Zia Ur-Rehman at Note 42.

[50] “Karachi’s Ranking Improves Drastically on World Crime Index.” Geo Television News . 22 April 2019, https://www.geo.tv/latest/234985-karachis-ranking-improves-drastically-on-world-crime-index .

[51] “Karachi Operation Report: 2018 Records Higher Number of Rangers’ Operations.” The Express Tribune. 1 January 2019, https://tribune.com.pk/story/1878567/karachi-operation-report-2018-records-highest-number-rangers-operations .

[52] Op. Cit., “Pakistan: Stoking the Fire in Karachi” at Note 6, p. 18.

[54] Author’s interviews with Karachi’s water experts and human rights activities, Karachi, May 2016.

[55] See, for example, Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Calderon’s Caldron: Lessons from Mexico’s Battle Against Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking in Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, and Michoacán.” Latin America Initiative Paper Series,   The Brookings Institution. September 2011, 09_calderon_felbab_brown.pdf (brookings.edu) ; and Vanda Felbab-Brown, “No Stairway to Heaven: Rescuing Slums in Latin America,” The Brookings Institution . 2 February 2, 2012, https://www.brookings.edu/2012/02/02/no-stairway-to-heaven-rescuing-slums-in-latin-america/ ; and Eduardo Moncada, Cities, Business, and the Politics of Urban Violence in Latin America . Stanford: Stanford University Press, 2016.

[56] Author’s interviews with members of CPLC staff and advisory board and Karachi police officials, Karachi, May 2016.

[57] Author’s interviews with security analysts and political party representatives, Karachi, May 2016.

[58] Author’s interviews with business community representatives and current and former Karachi police officials, Karachi and Islamabad, May 2016.

[59] Author’s interviews with CPLC staff and advisory board members, Karachi, 2016.

[62] Author’s interviews with members of Karachi’s business community, security analysts, and human rights activists, Karachi, and Islamabad, May 2016.

[63]  Op. Cit., Ahmad, at Note 44.

[64] “Rao Anwar Acquitted in Naqeebullah Murder Case.” The Express Tribune. 23 January 2023, https://tribune.com.pk/story/2397381/rao-anwar-acquitted-in-naqeebullah-murder-case .

[65] “Missing MQM workers are being found at PSP offices.” The News.  5 August 2016, https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/140142-Missing-MQM-workers-are-being-found-at-PSP-offices

[66] “Military Machinations, Violence and claims of election-rigging overshadow Pakistan’s election.” The Economist.  21 July 2018, https://www.economist.com/asia/2018/07/19/violence-and-claims-of-election-rigging-overshadow-pakistans-election .

[67] See, for example, “Foul Play, Time for Pakistan’s generals to stop meddling in politics.” The Economist . 21 July 2018, https://www.economist.com/leaders/2018/07/21/time-for-pakistans-generals-to-stop-meddling-in-politics

[68] Zia Ur-Rehman, “Karachi Shifts Focus to Development as Security Improves.” Pakistan Forward . 19 April 2019, https://pakistan.asia-news.com/en_GB/articles/cnmi_pf/features/2019/04/19/feature-01 .

[69] “The Global Livability Index 2018: A Free Overview.” The Economist . 2018, https://pages.eiu.com/rs/753-RIQ-438/images/The_Global_Liveability_Index_2018.pdf .

[70] Meher Ahmad, “Karachi Seeks to Remake Itself, with Bulldozers Leading the Way.” New York Times. 26 January 2019, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/26/world/asia/karachi-construction-pakistan.html

[71] Author’s interviews with a Pakistani security analyst, Washington, DC, May 2018.

[72] Imtiaz Ali, “Situationer: Behind the Numbers of Karachi’s Crime Conundrum.” Dawn. 22 September 2022, https://www.dawn.com/news/1711286 .

[73] Salis Perwaiz, “Karachi Police Chief Admits Street Crime Increased by 7PC in 2022.” The News International.  1 January 2023, https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1025894-karachi-police-chief-admits-street-crime-increased-by-7pc-in-2022 .

[74] Faraz Khan, “No Let-Up in Street Crime in City as 29 Killed, 140 Injured in 80 Days.” The News International. 23 March 2023, https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1052903-no-let-up-in-street-crime-in-city-as-29-killed-140-injured-in-80-days .

[75] “Rangers Nab Most Wanted Criminals,” The Express Tribune . 1 January 2023, https://tribune.com.pk/story/2393635/rangers-nab-most-wanted-criminals .

[77] Zia Ur Rehman, “Empowering Rangers Alone Will Not Address Street Crime.” The News International . 8 February 2022, https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/931712-empowering-rangers-alone-will-not-address-street-crime .

[78] Op. Cit., Khan at Note 73.

[79] Razzak Abro, “Public Safety Commission Comatose for Two Years.” The Express Tribune. 16 May 2022, https://tribune.com.pk/story/2356822/public-safety-commission-comatose-for-two-years .

[80] Op Cit., Rehman at Note 76.

[82] Op. Cit., “Rangers Nab” at Note 74.

[83] Op. Cit., Ali at Note 71.

[84] Vanda Felbab-Brown, “Why the Taliban Won, and What Washington Can Do About it Now.”  Foreign Affairs . 17 August 2021, https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/united-states/2021-08-17/why-taliban-won?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=www-foreignaffairs-com.cdn.ampproject.org&utm_campaign=amp_kickers .

[85] Ayaz Gul, “Pakistan: Terrorists Enjoy ‘Safe Havens’ in Afghanistan.” Voice of America . 14 July 2023¸ https://www.voanews.com/a/pakistanterrorists-enjoy-safe-havens-in-afghanistan/7181276.html .

[86] Ayaz Gul, “Pakistan, Militants Pause Afghan-Hosted Peace Talks for Internal Discourse Amid Cautious Optimism.” Voice of America. 30 May 2022, https://www.voanews.com/a/pakistan-militants-pause-afghan-hosted-peace-talks-for-internal-discourse-amid-cautious-optimism-/6595633.htm l.

[87] Vanda Felbab-Brown, “What Ayman al-Zawahri’s Death Says about Terrorism in Taliban-Run Afghanistan.” The Brookings Institution . 2 August 2022, https://www.brookings.edu/blog/order-from-chaos/2022/08/02/what-ayman-al-zawahris-death-says-about-terrorism-in-taliban-run-afghanistan/ .

[88] Naimat Khan, “Police Say Attack on Headquarters, Growing Extortion Meance Signal Return of Taliban to Karachi.” Arab News PK.  14 March 12023, https://www.arabnews.pk/node/ .

About the Author(s)

Dr. Vanda Felbab-Brown is Director of the Initiative on Nonstate Armed Actors and a Senior Fellow in Foreign Policy, Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology at the Brookings Institution. She is an expert on illicit economies and international and internal conflicts and their management, including counterinsurgency. She focuses particularly on South Asia, Burma, the Andean region, Mexico, and Somalia. Dr. Felbab-Brown is the author of Shooting Up: Counterinsurgency and the War on Drugs (Brookings Institution Press, 2009) which examines military conflict and illegal economies in Colombia, Peru, Afghanistan, Burma, Northern Ireland, India, and Turkey. She is also the author of numerous policy reports, academic articles, and opeds. A frequent commentator in US and international media, Dr. Felbab-Brown regularly testifies on these issues in the US Congress. She received her PhD in Political Science from MIT and her B.A. from Harvard University.

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Essay on The Problems of Karachi (200 & 500 Words)

In this post, I’m excited to share a detailed essay on the problems of Karachi tailored for school and college students. If you’re searching for well-written English essays on various topics, you’ve come to the right place. You can find English essays, PDF books, and subject notes for Class 9, Class 10, Class 11, and Class 12 by visiting the links below:

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I’ve also shared excellent pollution for 2nd-year students. This new essay on the problems of Karachi provides a thorough explanation of the topic. At Al-Qalm Coaching Center, you’ll discover a range of important English essays designed for Class 10, Class 12, and university students.

Whether you’re gearing up for exams or looking to enhance your understanding of inflation, this essay will be a valuable resource. Keep an eye out for more educational content and helpful resources to support your studies!

Essay on The Problems of Karachi

This post is about an Essay on the Problems of Karachi for students in Class 10, Class 12, and at the graduation level. It is a crucial essay for their annual English exams. A well-written essay on this topic can help students achieve better grades and enhance their academic standing. You can explore various aspects of the challenges faced by Karachi, including infrastructure issues, traffic congestion, and pollution.

In addition, this essay on the problems of Karachi provides an opportunity to discuss how these problems affect the daily lives of the city’s residents. By addressing topics like inadequate public services, economic differences, and the impact of rapid urbanization , students can develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of urban life in Karachi. You can also check out related topics such as solutions to urban problems, the role of government and community initiatives, and the importance of sustainable development.

Essay on The Problems of Karachi: 200 Words

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, faces many problems that affect its residents. One major issue is traffic jams. The roads are often crowded with cars, buses, and motorcycles, leading to long delays and discomfort for passengers. Poor road conditions and a lack of proper traffic management make this problem worse.

Another significant issue is the shortage of clean drinking water. Many areas in Karachi do not have access to safe water, forcing people to rely on tankers or bottled water, which can be expensive. This lack of clean water can lead to health problems and make daily life difficult.

The city also struggles with frequent power outages. Many neighbourhoods experience load shedding , where electricity is cut off for several hours a day. This gets in the way of daily activities, affects businesses, and makes it hard for students to study.

Garbage disposal is another concern in Karachi. The city generates a large amount of waste, but there are not enough facilities to manage it properly. Piles of garbage can be seen on the streets, which creates an unhygienic environment and attracts pests.

Despite these challenges, the people of Karachi are resilient and continue to strive for a better future for their city.

Essay on The Problems of Karachi – 500 words

Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, faces many problems that affect the lives of its residents. One of the biggest issues is traffic jams. The roads are often crowded with cars, buses, and motorcycles, leading to long delays and frustration for people trying to get to work, school, or other places. Poor road conditions and a lack of proper traffic management make this problem even worse. Traffic jams are a common sight, especially during rush hours, and this can waste a lot of time and fuel.

Another significant issue is the shortage of clean drinking water. Many areas in Karachi do not have access to safe water, forcing people to rely on tankers or bottled water, which can be expensive. This lack of clean water can lead to health problems, such as stomach infections, and makes daily life difficult. Sometimes, people have to wait in long lines to get water, and this can be very tiring and frustrating.

The city also struggles with frequent power outages. Many neighbourhoods experience load shedding, where electricity is cut off for several hours a day. This disrupts daily activities, affects businesses, and makes it hard for students to study or do their homework. Power outages can also be dangerous at night, as they leave streets and homes in darkness, increasing the risk of accidents and crime.

Garbage disposal is another major concern in Karachi. The city generates a large amount of waste, but there are not enough facilities to manage it properly. Piles of garbage can be seen on the streets, which creates an unhygienic environment and attracts pests like rats and flies. This can lead to health problems and make the city look dirty and uninviting.

Pollution is also a growing problem in Karachi. The air quality is often poor due to emissions from vehicles, factories, and burning garbage. Breathing in polluted air can cause respiratory problems, especially for children and the elderly. Noise pollution is another issue, with constant honking, construction work, and loudspeakers contributing to a noisy environment that can be stressful and harmful to health.

Public transportation in Karachi is inadequate and unreliable. Many people rely on buses and rickshaws, but these can be overcrowded and unsafe. The lack of a proper public transportation system means that people have to spend a lot of time and money commuting, and this can be very tiring.

The city also faces problems with law and order. Crime rates are high, and incidents of theft, robbery, and street crimes are common. This makes people feel unsafe and worried about their personal security. The police force is often under-resourced and struggles to maintain peace and order in such a large and densely populated city.

Despite these challenges, the people of Karachi are resilient and hardworking. Many community organizations and individuals are working to address these issues and improve the quality of life in the city. There are also efforts by the government to upgrade infrastructure, provide better public services, and ensure a safer environment for all residents. With continued effort and cooperation, it is hoped that Karachi can overcome these problems and become a better place to live.

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Hina Khalil is a writer with a passion for creativity and storytelling. She contributes essays to the Al-Qalam Coaching Center, drawing on her deep interest in history, politics and social issues. An avid reader, Hina brings a unique perspective to her work, blending her love for literature with a keen awareness of the world around her.

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Essay on Karachi – 500 words

500 words essay on karachi, introduction.

Karachi is the largest city and most populous city in Pakistan. It is the former capital of Pakistan and now serves as the capital of the province of Sindh. Karachi is also most notoriously known as the “City of Lights,” Karachi is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. The city households people of every ethnicity, religion, and race. This includes Balochies, Urdu speakers, Punjabis, etc.

Important in Pakistan’s Economy

Karachi plays a vital role in the economy of Pakistan, with a thriving port and a large industrial base. Karachi holds almost 200% of Pakistan’s GDP. Karachi partakes in 35% of the total earned revenue of Pakistan in the fiscal year of July 2021 to jun2022. The city is home to Pakistan’s stock exchange. Karachi also generates about 25% of the industrial output.

Rich culture

Karachi has a rich history and culture. Karachi has been habited for millennia now but with a different name. Karachi was previously known as ‘Kalachi’. Karachi has many historical landmarks and monuments. The most famous of these is the Mohatta Palace, a beautiful building that was built in the 1920s in the Art Deco style. The palace is now a museum and is open to the public. Another famous landmark is the Quaid-e-Azam’s mausoleum, which is dedicated to the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The mausoleum is a popular tourist destination and is an important symbol of national unity. Karachi also houses

Karachi is also home to many beautiful beaches, such as Clifton Beach, which is one of the most popular spots for locals and tourists alike. Karachi was also called Paris of the east because of the beautiful outposts it holds. Because of the vast diverse population of Karachi consisting of almost every ethnicity including Bengalis, Karachi is home to some of the most famous Pakistani dishes and cuisines. Karachi is also notorious for its street vendors.

The Problems

But of course, all that glitters is not gold. Karachi faces a lot of problems practically the highest in the whole country. This includes a lack of infrastructure and inadequate public transportation. Karachi is also the biggest hub of crime rates in Pakistan. This includes robbery, mobile snatching, kidnapping, etc.

The city is also suffering from some major issues such as pollution, water scarcity, and poor waste management. This makes life in Karachi extremely hard and unhealthy and even dangerous.

Karachi also serves as the graveyard for some of the worst times in Pakistan’s history. This includes bomb blasts, hijacking of airplanes, and other major terrorist attacks.

Countermeasures

The government of Pakistan has taken steps to address these issues and to improve the city’s infrastructure. New projects have been launched, such as the construction of a new airport and the expansion of the city’s metro system. The government of Pakistan has been trying constantly to install countermeasures to combat these issues but the unstable government and the changing of policies of the government of Pakistan have badly hurt the city of Karachi.

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Problems of Karachi Essay Example

• Pages: 5 (1162 words)
• Published: May 16, 2017
• Type: Case Study

Karachi is a heart of Pakistan carrying multi cultural values from all over the subcontinent and the economical hub, finance generator of Pakistan, generating 68% of revenue for Pakistan. Sudden and rapid growth of problems are taking place in the city due to which citizens from all walks of life are suffering, from business men to school children and students. Main cause of sudden growth may be the result of political rifts and differences amongst the political parties due to which citizens are largely suffering.

Pillion Riding Ban: Pillion riding ban was imposed for 3 days last year in November which is still imposed. It has greatly increased the problems for the citizens and they are forced to travel in rickshaws, busses and taxies unwillingly paying unfair demanded fares. Knowing the problem that they canno

t travel on bikes, drivers and bus conductors ultimately demand unfair fares and rents to their destination and due to which they often misbehave with passengers knowing that they (citizens) do not have any other option for travel.Besides the demand of unfair fare, other hitch is the increasing robbery and looting in busses.

It is becoming the usual that armed robbers get in the busses, rob people without any hesitation and then get off from the bus at the next stop, no prominent cure is provided for this problem. New fashion of transport strike (wheel jam) is increasing and it is not wrong to say that these strikes are being backed by the political party and mostly strikes are called for political motives. Yes! The motives are political but citizens suffer.A person who is earning on a daily basis won’t be able

to earn because transport is not available due to strike and cannot travel on a bike along with his friend because there is a ban on pillion riding in the city and the same goes for the students and citizens from all walks of life. Citizens, who were caught doing pillion ridings for some reasons, were caught and convicted in police stations and then later on released on bail. Youngsters and students suffered the most from this as they were forcefully criminalized and convicted to the lockups of local police stations with handcuffs on.

Literate citizens of Karachi especially youngsters and students are treated as professional criminals in the name of pillion riding and by convicting and locking them up, impression is given that the citizens including youngsters and students are professional criminals. Instead of terrorists, murderers and robbers, police lockups seem to be filled with literate citizens. Few days ago, a student of 1sy year (intermediate part1) missed his exam when he was getting towards his examination center at gulzar e hijri on a bike along with his brother and he was caught and convicted for pillion riding and missed his examination on that day.Artificial Load shedding Another core issue of Karachi is the lack of electricity, which is mostly an artificial crisis increasing the problems of the citizens and frustrating them.

Karachi being an economical hub with thousands of industries and factories, traders and businessmen all over the city is suffering due to the lack of electricity as load shedding is being done during working hours due to which the economy of city is getting down rapidly. Persons responsible for the artificial load shedding

should know that Karachi is earning 68% of the total revenue of Pakistan. Enmity with Karachi is enmity with Pakistan and its economy.Not only traders and business man are suffering but citizens from all walks of life are suffering due to artificial load shedding especially students.

Nowadays there are examinations of all boards underway including Intermediate, Post and Pre Graduate and students are suffering from long lasting load shedding and their studies and examination preparations are suffering greatly. Besides all these prominent problems due to load shedding there are many domestic problems occurring which are becoming the cause of mental torture for citizens which is increasing the frustration among the citizens.In this extremely hot weather, lack of electricity is increasing. The lack of water and water supply in domestic and industrial areas is being affected, further increasing the problems of city and citizens. The related officials are being silent and careless, with regards to the artificial crisis. It is a clear indication that this artificial crisis has some reason and might be a part of political feud from which citizens are suffering.

In this regard, City council Naib City Nazim and City Nazim extended their hands towards KECS and offered them that they are ready to cooperate on any thing for the solution of the crisis but KESC officials did not respond to the offer, may be due to political pressures. Land Grabbing Land grabbing is another issue that is creating a fuss and disturbance in the city. Land mafia seems to be very powerful with complete political backing, taking away the lands owned by citizens and also government’s land. No one can dare to resist

them as they are heavily armed and have political backing.Different gangs of land mafia clashing with each other disturbing the peace of city and if someone tries to resist, mafia excellently give it the ethnic color.

It is right to say that these land grabbers and land mafia are using the ethnic excuse to create a fuss in a city and are responsible for the ethnic tension in the city. This entire circle of land mafia, politicians and officials of law enforcement agency are responsible for the ethnic rifts in the city in order to save the illegal lands. DRUGS: Use of drugs is increasing in the city and good number of youth is being targeted by drug mafia.In Karachi, some 2 million youth and children are at the risk of drug addiction, as prevalence of drug addiction in very high in this mega city. A Karachi-based NGO working on the issues of street children and youth reported to a reputable news agency (The Nation) that in Karachi over two million youth are addicted, and rest of the youth and children are at also at a high risk of drug addiction, as drug trafficking is prevailing in every part of the city.

In Karachi the main addiction is of Hashish, because this drug is easily available at every nook and corner of the city.The main trafficking areas of hashish are Sohrab Goth, Banaras, Pahar Ganj, Azam Basti, Frontier Colon, Qaida Bad, Chanessar Goth, Dhobi Ghat and Massan near Keamair, Umer Farooq Colony, Mango Per, SITE, Muzafarbad Colony, Bilal Colony, Pehlwan Goth, Nata Khan Goth and Bhitai Colony. Drug mafia also seems to be operating with

a political backing and law enforcement agencies have failed to stop the rapid growth of the drug trafficking in city. Drug mafia also has taken the ethnic cover and under the ethnic cover their drug business is flourishing with the backing of some personals of law enforcement agency and some prominent political figures.

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Problems of Living in Karachi City

Karachi being the heart of the country and the financial hub of Pakistan generating more than 70 percent of revenue for the state is the largest city of Pakistan. It, along with its citizens face a number of problems as all the big cities of the world do and so do their citizens. In one of the most developed city of Pakistan containing a whole lot of industries the life of a common man is very fast, involving a lot of problems and one has to face these problems committedly.

In order to solve them as soon as possible and if one doesn’t the problems will keep on multiplying and all of a sudden he will be surrounded by a lot of them. We, being the citizens of Karachi face a lot of problems which include the problem of water supply, transportation and above all the worst law and order situation of the city. Water is one of the primary needs of human beings. Unfortunately the availability of this essential requirement is not sufficient to entertain and fulfill the needs of this city of more than twenty million people.

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This problem becomes even brutal in summer season. Government has to take necessary steps to solve this problem as the quantity of water is enough for the people, the problem is just in its supply. In some areas a large amount of water is wasted whereas in others people even struggle to diminish their thirst. Moreover, water tanker mafia is another cause of shortage of water in Karachi.

It earns billions annually, it steals about major percentage of the water from the city’s bulk distribution system every day and then sells it at excessive rates to residents and industries suffering from the water shortage that is largely caused by the activities of the water tanker mafia itself. Karachi is a vastly spread unplanned city and its area keep on increasing. To reach from one area to another is not a child’s play here. The traffic situation in Karachi is getting worse day by day.

On one hand the vehicles are increasing exponentially and on the other the condition of roads is getting worse all over Karachi and these roads are mostly seen to be occupied by traffic jams. Over speeding, overtaking, cutting signals, jumping lanes are usual practices. The main reason in my opinion for this is the lack of civic sense in drivers. They are either unaware of the traffic rules or simply do not bother following them. Encroachment is also one of the major reasons of the traffic jams in Karachi. It started from the service roads then it came to footpaths and now most of the main roads are encroached.

Pakistan is going through probably the worst and the most difficult era in the history of the country. The security situation is getting worse continuously, the country is challenged by mounting Islamic militancy (TALIBAN) and terrorism, which already caused thousands of deaths. In Karachi, the terrorism is in various forms like target killing, extortion money and kidnapping for ransom. Target killing in Karachi is always on the rise, with police and Rangers watching the ever worsening situation as mare spectators.

It appears that they can’t find any clues of the forces behind these horrible crimes. . Basically, target killing is done on the political party basis in which innocent people suffer in most cases. Another crime which rose in last few years is extortion, in which criminals threat people particularly businessmen of their lives and force them to pay a specific amount of money. They throw grenades on shops to threaten them. These criminals even kidnap leading businessmen and force their families to pay millions of rupees as ransom.

Thus, in the shadow of above problems, we have to think that a life in Karachi possesses many difficulties, and we karachiits have to face all these problems with courage and confidence. Through the determined and joint efforts of each and every citizen including the members of law and enforcement and ruling agencies, we can overcome and solve our problems. Our life could become easier and pleasant if some of these problems are solved by the government, keeping in mind the future prospects and scenarios of the city so our next generations do not come across the same problems that we are facing today.

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