Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has announced plans to convert selected city roads into pedestrian-only areas. The proposal takes inspiration from London’s decision to restrict vehicle access to Oxford Street.
Wahab highlighted London’s recent move to transform part of its famous shopping street. He said the initiative had received widespread appreciation from the public.
According to the mayor, London’s administration designated a one-kilometer section of Oxford Street exclusively for pedestrians. The decision allows people to use the road without interference from regular traffic.
Wahab expressed interest in introducing similar arrangements in Karachi. However, the specific roads and implementation timeline have not yet been announced.
He also stressed the importance of political cooperation in carrying out such projects. According to him, political parties in London did not create legal obstacles to the pedestrianization plan.
The mayor suggested that similar cooperation would help Karachi implement urban development projects more effectively.
Karachi Mayor Highlights London’s Pedestrianization Model
Murtaza Wahab referred to London’s approach while discussing possible changes to Karachi’s road infrastructure.
He explained that London’s mayor had introduced restrictions on vehicle movement along a section of Oxford Street. The decision has transformed part of the busy commercial area into a pedestrian-friendly space.
Wahab appreciated the political support behind the initiative. He noted that political differences had not prevented London from moving forward with the project.
He emphasized that political cooperation would also be important for Karachi. Such support could help local authorities introduce similar urban planning measures.
The proposed pedestrian-only roads could change how selected areas of Karachi are used. However, the city administration has yet to share further details.
London Permanently Closes Part of Oxford Street to Traffic
The announcement follows London’s decision to permanently close a section of Oxford Street to vehicles.
The restrictions came into effect on Monday, October 26. The move opened the selected area to pedestrians and removed regular traffic from the street.
Oxford Street is one of London’s most recognized shopping destinations. The affected section previously accommodated different types of vehicles.
These included London’s famous red double-decker buses and traditional black cabs. Under the new arrangement, pedestrians can use the designated area without regular vehicle movement.
The initiative forms part of London’s efforts to improve the experience of people visiting the shopping district.
London Plans Further Expansion of Pedestrian Areas
The first phase of London’s project covers around half of Oxford Street. Authorities may extend pedestrian restrictions to the remaining sections later.
Further expansion will depend on the project’s performance and overall success.
The initiative provides an example of how major cities can redesign busy commercial streets. It also highlights the role of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in urban planning.
Meanwhile, Karachi’s proposed plan remains at an early stage. The city administration has not identified the roads selected for pedestrianization.
No official implementation schedule or detailed project framework has been announced so far.
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If introduced, pedestrian-only roads could bring changes to selected commercial and public areas of Karachi. Further details are expected from the city administration regarding the proposed initiative.














