KARACHI:
The Jamshoro-Sehwan Indus highway has witnessed a number of road accidents during the last couple of years. While most of the busy chunk of this highway, from Jamshoro to Aamri, has been upgraded as dual carriageway, the patch between Khanoth and Manjhand is still undergoing repair work, but at a very slow pace.
Recently, while traveling by car on this dangerous highway, I had a narrow escape at Khasai near Khanoth. A speedy oncoming bus overtook another vehicle and I suddenly found it in front of my car. I had to apply emergency brakes and drag my car to the shoulder. I was left in a state of trauma. However, I called the office of the bus operator as well as the NHMP helpline to get my complaint lodged. I was told that the bus was stopped at Sann and the driver was warned and given safety briefing. However, I wonder whether a mere warning and briefing were enough for these reckless drivers who threaten the lives of passengers and other commuters.
I call upon the NHMP high-ups to increase surveillance and patrolling on Indus Highway, particularly between Khanoth and Manjhand, to ensure road safety. Moreover, NHA must ensure early completion of the dual carriageway between Khanoth and Manjahnd as well as implementation of safety rules by all private bus companies.
Salar Lateef
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, May 10th, 2024.
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