THE Defence Housing Authority (DHA), Karachi, has installed several concrete barriers randomly at public places, including main roads and speed lanes.

These barriers are placed without any warning signs and are being used as speed-breakers. The so-called ‘security barriers’, carelessly positioned by the DHA are not being used for any security purpose and have been abandoned for a long time without anyone attending to them.

The sheer negligence of DHA has resulted in numerous road accidents and fatalities. These concrete barriers are undoubtedly dangerous and unsafe for area residents, and are unlawful obstruction under section 133 CrPC 1898.

Besides, these barriers are also contrary to Article 139(c) (d) of the Police Order 2002 which states that no person “shall cause an obstruction in any street or public place by using any part of a street or public place as a halting place for vehicles or cattle; or by causing obstruction in any other manner”.

Also, Article 141 says that any person “who contravenes any of the provisions of Articles 138 to 140 shall, on conviction, be punished with a fine, which may extend to Rs10,000, or, in default of payment, with imprisonment for a term not exceeding 30 days”.

The Sindh High Court has also directed police and DHA to remove all barriers in the area. These concrete barriers are undoubtedly a nuisance and contrary to Article 15 of the Constitution related to the freedom of movement.

The authorities concerned should act and remove all these barriers from DHA without further delay.

Eena Siddique
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2020