Sindh rolls out new traffic penalties and demerit point system

Overspeeding, signal violations to carry heavy fines, license suspension risk

KARACHI:

The Sindh government has amended the 12th Schedule of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965, introducing a system of heavy fines and demerit points for traffic violations across the province. The move is aimed at improving road safety and disciplining habitual offenders, according to Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon.

Under the new regime, overspeeding, signal violations, wrong-way driving, overloading, driving without a license, and other dangerous practices will invite strict penalties. Fines have been increased according to vehicle type — motorcycles, cars/jeeps, public service vehicles, and heavy transport.

Overspeeding will now carry a fine of Rs5,000 for motorcycles, Rs15,000 for cars, and Rs20,000 for heavy vehicles, along with eight demerit points. Driving without a license will attract fines up to Rs50,000 and six points, while reckless driving will carry a penalty of Rs25,000 and eight points. Other violations such as one-wheeling, riding without a helmet, tinted windows, lane indiscipline, and carrying passengers on rooftops will also be punished with heavy fines.

Memon stressed that these measures are not meant to generate revenue but to save lives. "Overspeeding, signal breaking and one-wheeling are not minor offences but deadly actions that endanger both drivers and others. Repeat violators will face suspension or cancellation of licenses," he said.

He further announced that the government is working to modernise traffic management through digital monitoring systems and enhanced training for the traffic police. The demerit point system, he added, will help track repeat offenders and is already in place in many developed countries.