Karachi’s New Year’s Eve Turns Tragic: 26 Injured in Aerial Firing

Karachi, Pakistan – What was meant to be a night of celebration turned into a tragic reminder of the dangers of aerial firing as 26 people were injured during New Year’s Eve festivities across Karachi. Despite measures to curb the practice, stray bullets caused injuries to dozens of citizens, including children and women, as hospitals across the city reported receiving victims from various areas.

Section 144 Imposed, Yet Violence Continues

To prevent celebratory gunfire, the Karachi Commissioner issued a notification on December 31 imposing Section 144 for 48 hours. The notification prohibited aerial firing and fireworks, yet many ignored the restrictions.

On New Year’s Day 2024, police confirmed the death of an infant girl and injuries to 32 people, including several teenagers. Law enforcement authorities arrested 75 suspects for engaging in celebratory firing.

Hospital Reports Detail Victims

Hospitals across Karachi saw a steady stream of injured individuals during the night.

• Civil Hospital Karachi treated six injured people. Victims included two 25-year-olds from Kumharwada, a 23-year-old from Denso Market, a 55-year-old from Nishtar Road, and two individuals aged 18 and 23 from Lyari.

• Jinnah Hospital received nine patients. Among them were an 11-year-old boy and three teenagers, as well as victims from Shah Faisal Colony, Tariq Road, Sharea Faisal, Landhi, Korangi, and Malir. The oldest patient was a 50-year-old woman.

• Abbasi Shaheed Hospital recorded the highest number of casualties, with victims aged 12 to 35 from areas such as Sohrab Goth, Liaquatabad, North Nazimabad, Orangi Town, Manghopir, and Dastagir.

According to the Karachi Police and Edhi Foundation, most injuries were caused by stray bullets from celebratory gunfire. Investigations are ongoing.

The Human Cost of Reckless Celebrations

Karachi has a long history of aerial firing during celebrations, despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns. Each year, these stray bullets cause injuries and fatalities, leaving families devastated. Authorities continue to stress the need for stricter enforcement and public cooperation to prevent such tragedies in the future.

A Call for Responsible Celebrations

While New Year’s Eve is an occasion for joy, the reckless tradition of aerial firing puts countless lives at risk. Karachi's residents must reconsider their methods of celebration to ensure safety for all. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to addressing this issue, but public awareness and responsibility remain key.