In a notification issued on Wednesday, Naqvi outlined that the move comes in response to concerns over large gatherings expected at Sea View, with a significant number of young people arriving in cars and on motorcycles. These gatherings are feared to cause traffic congestion and inconvenience to local residents.
The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) for South Zone, Karachi, warned that such gatherings could lead to public safety hazards, particularly the risk of aerial firing, which has historically led to fatal accidents.
“Such gatherings may cause traffic congestion and inconvenience to local residents. The DIGP South Zone has requested that a ban under Section 144 CrPC be imposed on the carrying/display of arms, aerial firing, use of fireworks, and pillion riding on motorcycles/scooters, to safeguard the lives of citizens,” said the notification.
The restriction, effective from December 31 to January 1, 2026, aims to prevent dangerous practices associated with New Year’s Eve celebrations. It applies to all forms of pillion riding on motorcycles and scooters, with the exception of certain groups. The ban does not apply to women, children under the age of 12, senior citizens, journalists, law enforcement personnel, or employees of essential services.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Rangers have completed security arrangements for the upcoming New Year celebrations, deploying mobile and motorcycle squads on key roads in Karachi and throughout the province. The security measures include increased snap checks, mobile patrols, and expanded motorcycle patrols at sensitive locations to ensure public safety.
A heavy contingent of Rangers personnel will be on duty, conducting patrols and safeguarding sensitive areas in Karachi and across Sindh. Biometric verification of suspected individuals will continue at the city’s entry and exit points as well as at inter-provincial checkpoints.
The Rangers spokesperson confirmed that the display of weapons and aerial firing would be strictly prohibited during the New Year’s celebrations. “In the interest of public safety, we urge citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid aerial firing, weapons display, and reckless driving. Violators will face immediate and strict legal action,” said the spokesperson.
The Rangers also provided contact details for the public to report any suspicious activity or potential threats during the festivities. Citizens are encouraged to call the Rangers help line at 1101 or send messages via the WhatsApp number 03479001111 for assistance.
Sindh Police chief Ghulam Nabi retires
Earlier, Inspector General (IG) of Sindh Police, Ghulam Nabi Mehmood, retired after completing his tenure, with the additional charge of the IG position handed over to Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho.
Despite the completion of Mehmood’s tenure, the Sindh government had not appointed a new IG before his retirement. As a result, the Sindh government issued a notification appointing Additional IG Odho as the acting IG of Sindh. Following the notification, Odho took charge of the acting position of IG Sindh. A change-of-command ceremony was held at the Central Police Office in Karachi, where Mehmood handed over his duties and the command stick to Odho.
Mehmood, who served in the police service of Pakistan at Grade 22, was born on January 1, 1966, in Badin. He joined the police department on October 19, 1991, and later, on October 8, 1997, he was promoted from Grade 17 to Grade 18.