Authorities in Karachi have introduced new traffic and road safety regulations following a rise in accidents, aiming to improve road discipline and reduce casualties.
According to a statement from the Karachi Traffic Police, the decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by the Inspector General of Sindh Police. Senior officials, including the Additional IG Karachi, Commissioner Karachi, and representatives from various transport and law enforcement agencies, attended the meeting.
Mandatory Safety Measures
Officials announced a series of strict measures targeting heavy vehicles, motorcyclists, and rickshaws. All heavy vehicles must now be equipped with side railings and underrun bars to prevent smaller vehicles from getting trapped underneath. Installation of GPS trackers, dash cams, rear-view cameras, and cabin cameras has also been mandated to monitor driver behaviour and preserve evidence in case of accidents.
Oil tankers must install buffer plates to stabilise liquid movement, reducing the risk of rollovers. Additionally, drug and fatigue tests will be introduced to identify unfit drivers. Water tankers spilling water on roads, a significant cause of motorcycle skidding accidents, will also face strict penalties.
Motorcyclists Face Stricter Rules
Helmet use has been made mandatory without exception, with authorities set to launch a crackdown on violators. Motorcycles must be equipped with chain covers, functional headlights, taillights, hazard lights, and indicators. Registration plates must be clearly visible on both sides, and rear-view mirrors must be installed.
Authorities have also warned motorcyclists against riding in the middle or right lanes, stating that violators will be stopped and fined. Drivers must always carry a valid licence, as enforcement efforts will be ramped up.
AI-Powered Enforcement
To enhance monitoring, the city will deploy Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect violations such as running red lights or crossing stop lines. Speed cameras will be installed to ensure compliance with speed limits, while lane-monitoring cameras will identify drivers violating lane discipline. Repeat offenders will face a fine of PKR 2,500 on top of existing penalties.
Ban on Rickshaws on Major Roads
Officials have banned extra-seater rickshaws from operating on five major roads, including I.I. Chundrigar Road (Shahrah-e-Faisal to Tower), Shahrah-e-Faisal (Avari to Star Gate), Khaliq-uz-Zaman Road (Lily Signal to Submarine Underpass), Sir Shah Suleman Road (Liaquatabad to Stadium), and Rashid Minhas Road (Drigh Road to Sohrab Goth).
More Restrictions Expected
Authorities stated that additional measures will be introduced gradually to enhance road safety. "These steps aim to ensure responsible driving, prevent accidents, and make roads safer for all citizens," the Karachi Traffic Police spokesperson said.
Strict enforcement of these regulations will be carried out, and violators will face severe penalties.
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