ISLAMABAD: Tensions flared in the metropolis late Monday when a motorcyclist tragically lost his life after being struck by a speeding water tanker near Jail Chowrangi, once again highlighting concerns over road safety in the megacity.
The accident sparked public outrage, with angry citizens setting fire to five water tankers near the crash site in Karachi. Firefighters responded quickly, containing the flames and preventing further damage.
In response to the escalating situation, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar instructed police to submit a detailed report on the incident and the subsequent violence.
The minister also stressed the importance of stricter enforcement of traffic laws and measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The heartbreaking incident comes amid a concerning rise in traffic-related fatalities in the sprawling city. In just the past two months, at least 100 people have lost their lives in road accidents across Karachi. Of these, 72 were in urban areas, and 24 occurred in the suburbs, including at least eight deaths in four separate incidents involving dumpers.
In response to the surge in casualties caused by heavy vehicles, the Sindh government enacted a ban earlier this month on the daytime entry of such vehicles into the city. As per the new rules, dumpers are only allowed to operate in Karachi between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Monday’s tragedy has reignited calls for stronger road safety measures and better enforcement of traffic regulations to address the growing number of accidents in the city.
The authorities are now under increased pressure to address these issues and ensure the safety of Karachi’s residents.
Government’s Response
In light of the recent surge in dumper truck-related fatalities, Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon addressed the media on February 13, outlining the provincial government’s efforts to reduce the growing number of road accidents.
The Sindh government has mandated that all heavy transport vehicles undergo fitness testing and registration. Moving forward, large transport vehicles will need to hold a valid fitness certificate to operate on the roads. Those without proper certification will be banned from use.
Memon also announced that the water board has introduced a barcode system for all water tankers registered at authorized hydrants. Only vehicles that meet the required fitness standards will be issued barcodes, while unregistered vehicles will be seized.
Furthermore, all previously registered vehicles will undergo re-evaluation to ensure they continue to meet safety standards.
A 30-day grace period has been granted for heavy transport vehicles to acquire fitness certificates.
In addition, the operational hours for dumper trucks in Karachi have been revised. Previously permitted on the roads from 11 p.m. to 6 p.m., dumpers will now only be allowed between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to help reduce congestion and improve public safety.
