Section 144 imposed near Jinnah Airport over security concerns

KARACHI: Citing aviation safety concerns, authorities have imposed a complete two-month ban on the sale and use of laser lights near Jinnah Airport in Karachi, News reported.

Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, issued a notification stating that the restriction under Section 144 will be enforced from 6 May to 5 July 2025.

Authorities decided due to growing concerns about the dangers laser beams pose during aircraft take-offs and landings at Jinnah Airport.

The notification warns that laser lights can severely impair pilots’ vision and potentially cause catastrophic air incidents.

“Laser beams may affect pilots’ eyesight, especially during critical moments such as landing and take-off, increasing the risk of aviation accidents,” the document stated.

In response to the notification, authorities have instructed local police stations to take immediate action against any violations.

Authorities have extended the ban to all areas surrounding the city’s airports to prevent disruptions to air traffic and ensure passenger safety.

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Officials emphasized that they will strictly enforce the tempor prohibition throughout the two months to safeguard both pilots and passengers.

Earlier, Commissioner Karachi Syed Hasan Naqvi directed authorities to impose Section 144 in the SITE area and Keamari districts for two months, restricting several activities to maintain public order and control traffic.

The authorities will enforce the implementation until June 24, prohibiting encroachments on green belts, public spaces, and sidewalks, as well as the dumping of debris in these areas.

Moreover, Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi imposed Section 144 to control heavy traffic in Karachi, prohibiting heavy vehicles, including freight vehicles, from entering between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM to reduce road accidents.

Authorities have directed law enforcement agencies to strictly address violators of Section 144, ensuring compliance with the new regulations.