KARACHI, June 12: Transport mafia still reigns supreme in Lyari Town as it continues to occupy the main road, according to officials.

In a communication to the City Nazim, Naimatullah Khan, the Town Nazim said: “Public grievances regarding unauthorized occupation of the main artery, Sheedi Village Road in Lea Market, remains to be resolved because of lack of coordination between the Town and traffic police.”

It said that on the one hand, no positive response was received from the concerned police officials for the removal of the illegal inter-city bus terminus. On the other, the encroachers continue to raise hurdles for pedestrians and cause congestion that affects traffic flow, despite the fact that their petition was rejected by a higher court.

Under the circumstances, it is necessary that the law of the land be enforced and strict action be taken against the law breakers.

The Lyari Town Nazim said that the City Capital Police Officer should also be directed to initiate full-fledged action for the removal of Balochistan-bound coaches from Sheedi Village.

The unauthorized goods transport business in Lyari Town is still operational in spite of the ongoing removal campaign started by the Town administration in May 15, 2002.

The officials admit that these goods transporters have paid no heed to the campaign which commenced after a series of meetings, in order to persuade them to discontinue their unauthorized business voluntarily and in public interest.

The mafia has disregarded all official warnings and continues to operate its business as usual.

In view of this situation, the Lyari Town Nazim urged that Section 144 be imposed throughout Lyari Town, under which a ban would be imposed on unauthorized goods’ business.