Karachi: The daily crime rate in Karachi dropped from 252 to 107 incidents, according to Javed Alam Odho, Additional IG Sindh Police. He announced this during a Monday meeting at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI). The reduction was achieved through improved policing and the use of CCTV cameras. The Safe City Project, aimed at enhancing security, is nearing completion with government and private sector collaboration. However, Odho emphasized the need for more police personnel to sustain these gains.
Safe City Project to Be Completed Soon
Odho emphasized the importance of technology in maintaining security in modern cities. He highlighted that globally, traditional methods like patrolling and snap checking are being replaced by CCTV surveillance. Following this trend, Karachi’s Safe City Project, which includes upgrading CCTV cameras, is being expedited. The Sindh government is working in consultation with various stakeholders to ensure the project’s swift completion. Currently, around 3,000 cameras have been installed in Karachi with the help of the private sector, and more are on the way.
Addressing Manpower Shortages
Despite the improvements, Odho acknowledged the challenges posed by a shortage of police personnel. He stated that maintaining peace in Karachi with the current force of 15,000 officers is nearly impossible. He highlighted that additional personnel are being integrated under the S4 project, and efforts are being made to address the longstanding issue of manpower shortages. This includes the return of officers assigned to Chinese nationals’ protection, as new recruits are expected to join the force soon.
Community Collaboration and Crime Prevention
Odho praised the business community for its cooperation in crime prevention efforts, particularly through the Neighborhood System, which has been highly effective in areas like Korangi. However, he stressed the need for more resources, including 500 new motorcycles for patrolling, to enhance police efficiency. He also urged the community to support social awareness campaigns, particularly in schools, to instill a sense of civic responsibility and adherence to traffic laws among children.
Challenges Faced by the Business Community
During the event, KATI President Jawed Kandhari addressed the economic challenges facing Karachi’s business community. He noted that the rising cost of electricity and production has led to the closure of over 300 industries, resulting in significant job losses. This economic downturn has contributed to an increase in street crime and other security issues in the city. Kandhari praised the Sindh Police’s efforts, particularly the success of the 15 App, which has greatly enhanced police performance.
Call for Additional Police Resources
Kandhari also highlighted the urgent need for more police resources, noting that the current ratio of one officer per 1,200 residents in Karachi is far from adequate, especially when compared to Lahore’s ratio of one officer per 237 residents. He pointed out that due to this shortage, private security guards are filling the gap, with 55,000 guards currently deployed across the city.
Concerns Over Traffic and Street Crime
The issue of traffic congestion, particularly in Korangi, was another major concern. Kandhari noted that the movement of containers at night is causing severe traffic problems and contributing to the rise in street crime. KATI and local transporters are considering legal action to address this issue. He also pointed out that roadside stalls are becoming hubs of criminal activity, further complicating efforts to maintain law and order.
The event concluded with calls for urgent action to address Karachi’s security challenges. While the city has made significant progress, the need for more resources, better infrastructure, and continued community collaboration remains critical. The swift completion of the Safe City Project and the strengthening of police resources were identified as key priorities in ensuring Karachi’s long-term safety and security.
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