KARACHI: Car races will now be held under floodlights in Karachi after LED lighting was installed at an autocross track in a private housing society located on the Super Highway.
The facility has been described as Pakistan’s first super floodlit sports track, enabling motorsport competitions to take place both during the day and at night.
Officials said 100 light towers had been installed along the more than two-kilometre-long circuit, while 300 LED lights and four high-mast towers had also been set up to illuminate the track.
Alongside the lighting system, a drag-race track has also been prepared at the venue.
The drag strip measures 400 metres in length and can host 200-metre drag races in which two vehicles compete simultaneously.
According to organisers, cars participating in drag races can exceed speeds of 250 kilometres per hour.
A modern timing system has also been installed at the finishing line to accurately record race timings.
The track has initially been opened for four major motorsport formats, including autocross, side-to-side drag racing, drifting, and buggy ATV and remote-control off-road vehicle competitions.
People associated with motorsports in Karachi often remain occupied during the daytime due to business and professional commitments, making it difficult for many enthusiasts to participate in daytime races.
Officials said the installation of floodlights was expected to further promote motorsports by allowing events to be held at night and during periods when daytime heat makes racing difficult.
A 2.5-kilometre service lane has also been constructed around the track where fire brigade services, ambulances and emergency medical assistance will remain available during competitions.
Space has additionally been allocated for around 100,000 spectators along with a food court, accommodation facilities, service areas and parking for vehicles brought from different parts of Pakistan ahead of events.
In connection with Marka-e-Haq celebrations, around 100 cars also took part in a march-past at the track, with young drivers participating in the event.
