Sindh declares Karachi airport, surrounding areas 'red zone'

The Sindh government has declared the Karachi airport and its surrounding areas "red zone" due to heightened security concerns after consulting with the law enforcement agencies’ heads in light of the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024.

As IDEAS 2024 kicked off on Tuesday, District Malir police officials confirmed that access to the red zone will be restricted only to passengers arriving or departing from the port city and to those conducting official duties.

Additionally, in an effort to enhance security in the area, checkpoints have been established at five key locations near the airport, including Star Gate, CAA Club, Madame Bridge, Model Morr and ASF Road Rangers Post.

Police and Rangers officials will maintain a round-the-clock presence at these sites, ensuring thorough checks of individuals and vehicles to thwart any potential threats.

Every suspicious person and vehicle will be checked at these points to prevent any unusual activity. 

All passengers are requested to reach the airport well before the time of their flight so that they can easily pass through the security phases and do not face any delay.

The residents of the M9 motorway, Malir Cantt, Memon Goth, Model Colony and other adjoining areas are requested to take the main Sharea Faisal and Malir Halt route instead of passing through the red zone for travelling towards the city.

Passengers coming from Drigh Road and heading towards Malir Cantt or Model Colony are also requested to travel towards their destination through Malir Halt instead of using Star Gate or CAA Club Road.

All those going to the airport are requested to carry their flight tickets and national identity cards before entering the red zone so that the security checking process is swifter.