At least 28 people, including women and children, were injured in multiple incidents of aerial firing across Karachi as celebrations marking the start of the New Year 2026 turned dangerous. Hospital and rescue officials confirmed that victims were brought to major medical facilities from different parts of the city following reports of indiscriminate gunfire.
According to officials, the injured were shifted to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Civil Hospital Karachi, and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital for immediate medical treatment. Doctors stated that most of the victims suffered bullet-related injuries caused by falling rounds fired into the air during New Year celebrations.
Hospital authorities confirmed that the injured included six women and two young girls, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of aerial firing and its severe consequences. Several victims were reported to be in serious condition, while others received first aid and were kept under observation.
Rescue officials said incidents of aerial firing were reported from multiple neighborhoods across Karachi. Bullets fired skyward during celebrations eventually landed in residential areas, streets, and rooftops, striking unsuspecting citizens inside their homes or while outdoors.
Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned against aerial firing, calling it a criminal offense that poses a serious threat to public safety. Despite these warnings, the practice continues to surface during celebratory events such as New Year’s Eve, weddings, and political gatherings.
Police officials said investigations are underway to identify those involved in the firing incidents. In some areas, empty bullet shells were recovered, and authorities are reviewing available evidence to trace suspects responsible for the reckless acts.
Medical professionals emphasized that aerial firing injuries are often severe and unpredictable. Unlike targeted gunfire, falling bullets can strike anyone, including children and elderly residents, making such incidents particularly dangerous in densely populated cities like Karachi.
Civic activists and residents once again raised concerns over the lack of enforcement during festive occasions. Many urged authorities to take stricter measures, including arrests and fines, to deter people from engaging in celebratory gunfire.
Over the years, Karachi has witnessed repeated incidents of injuries and fatalities caused by aerial firing during celebrations. Despite public awareness campaigns and media coverage, the practice continues to claim victims every year.
Officials urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and report any instances of aerial firing to law enforcement agencies. They stressed that public cooperation is essential to prevent such avoidable injuries and ensure community safety.
The incidents have renewed calls for stronger awareness campaigns and more visible policing during major events. Community leaders emphasized that celebrating the New Year should not come at the cost of innocent lives.
As Karachi enters 2026, authorities face renewed pressure to enforce laws more effectively and ensure that celebrations remain safe for all residents. The latest injuries serve as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of aerial firing and the urgent need to curb this dangerous practice.
