Kallar Kahar bus tragedy prompts fresh SOPs

RAWALPINDI:

 

Days after the tragic bus accident that claimed 13 lives on the Islamabad-Lahore Motorway, the Rawalpindi district administration and Motorway Police have introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at enhancing passenger safety.

Any passenger vehicles failing to adhere to the new SOPs will face immediate intervention.

According to the sources in the administration, and Motorway Police, all transporters are now required to possess a vehicle fitness certificate, ensure all taxes are paid, obtain route permission, hold a valid driver's license, and maintain their vehicles in accordance with the updated public safety SOPs.

In an effort to prevent future accidents like the recent bus tragedy, a warning letter has been dispatched to all transportation base administrations and organisations, they said.

Stricter measures will be enforced, with zero tolerance for vehicles deemed unsafe, poorly maintained, or traveling at high speeds. Vehicles falling under these categories will be halted, and substantial fines will be imposed. Additionally, drivers found to be involved in significant violations will face suspension of their licenses.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 29^th, 2023.