Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab announces plans to convert selected city roads into pedestrian-only zones, taking inspiration from London’s recent transformation of Oxford Street.
KARACHI, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has announced plans to introduce pedestrian-only roads in selected parts of the city, drawing inspiration from London’s recent decision to transform a major section of its famous Oxford Street into a traffic-free zone.
Speaking at a press briefing, Wahab said the municipal administration was considering identifying roads that could be closed to vehicular traffic and reserved exclusively for pedestrians.
The initiative aims to create safer public spaces and improve the city’s urban environment by providing residents with areas where they can walk and spend time without interference from vehicle traffic.
Karachi looks towards London’s Oxford Street model
Wahab referred to London’s recent pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, where almost one kilometre of the famous shopping thoroughfare was closed to general traffic from October 26.
The first phase covers the section between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.
The London initiative is part of a broader urban regeneration programme intended to improve pedestrian access, revitalise commercial activity and create a more accessible public environment.
The Karachi mayor highlighted the importance of political cooperation in implementing urban development projects, noting that London’s political parties had not created legal obstacles or protests over the Oxford Street initiative.
Selected Karachi roads may become pedestrian zones
According to the mayor’s announcement, Karachi’s municipal administration plans to identify suitable roads for pedestrian-only arrangements.
The proposed initiative could provide more space for walking, social interaction and commercial activities while reducing the dominance of vehicles in selected areas.
However, authorities have not yet announced which roads will be included, when the project will begin or how traffic will be redirected.
The feasibility of the initiative will depend on factors including traffic management, alternative routes, parking facilities and the interests of businesses operating along the selected roads.
Challenges remain for implementation
Karachi faces significant urban mobility challenges, including heavy traffic, limited pedestrian infrastructure and pressure on public spaces.
Introducing pedestrian-only zones would require coordination between municipal authorities, traffic police, local businesses and residents.
Proper planning would also be necessary to ensure that pedestrians, elderly citizens and people with disabilities can access the designated areas safely.
If implemented, the initiative could introduce a different approach to managing public spaces and improving walkability in Pakistan’s largest city.
