In a significant development within Karachi’s police hierarchy, Syed Peer Muhammad Shah has been reinstated as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Traffic Karachi. This decision was formalized through an official notification released on Friday by the Sindh Chief Secretary, Asif Haider Shah. The notification also announced the withdrawal of the additional charge previously held by Mazhar Nawaz Sheikh, who had been overseeing the traffic department since Shah’s removal last month.
The notification clarified that Syed Peer Muhammad Shah, a Pakistan Police Service (PSP) officer of grade BS-20, was awaiting posting in the Services, General Administration and Coordination Department before being assigned back to the critical role of DIG Traffic Karachi. This move effectively relieved Mazhar Nawaz Sheikh, also a PSP officer of the same grade, from his temporary charge of the traffic department at the Central Police Office in Sindh.
Peer Muhammad Shah’s initial removal from the post on January 29 came in the aftermath of the tragic fire at Gul Plaza, which claimed the lives of at least 80 people. The incident drew widespread criticism over the emergency response, particularly highlighting the severe traffic congestion that reportedly delayed fire brigade and rescue teams from reaching the scene promptly. Shah was held responsible by many for the mismanagement of traffic arrangements during this critical emergency, which ultimately led to his replacement by Mazhar Nawaz Sheikh.
Besides the operational challenges linked to the Gul Plaza tragedy, Shah’s tenure was also marred by serious allegations unrelated to traffic management. He faced accusations of involvement in a high-profile kidnapping case concerning a businessman. Reports indicated that Shah allegedly exerted undue influence to register a case against the businessman over the recovery of more than Rs310 million. The businessman was reportedly taken into custody by Hyderabad Police in Karachi but was later released. Subsequently, the businessman filed a counter-case against Shah at the Gizri Police Station, adding to the controversy surrounding the officer.
Despite these challenges, Syed Peer Muhammad Shah had previously gained recognition for spearheading the introduction of the e-challan system in Karachi. This initiative was aimed at enhancing traffic discipline and streamlining the enforcement of traffic laws in the city. His reinstatement to the post suggests a renewed confidence in his capabilities by the provincial administration, even as questions linger over the unresolved allegations and the circumstances of his earlier removal.
The decision to reappoint Shah comes at a time when Karachi continues to grapple with complex traffic management issues and the need for effective leadership in the traffic police department. Observers note that the move may signal a shift in strategy by the Sindh government to stabilize the department amid ongoing scrutiny and public demand for accountability following the Gul Plaza disaster.
