Karachi’s traffic police have reinforced the ban on pressure horns, fancy number plates, and similar vehicle modifications, warning of strict action against violators.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah stated during an event in Karachi that authorities are actively cracking down on the sale of illegal vehicle accessories. As part of this effort, more than 27,000 confiscated number plates, hooters, and pressure horns will be destroyed.
Road Safety Measures and Investigation Teams
To enhance road safety and accident analysis, Shah announced the creation of a 10-member Karachi Accident Analysis Team. This team will investigate accident patterns, compile data, and assist in developing a mobile application for traffic safety analysis.
He also highlighted the high fatality rate among motorcyclists, emphasizing the urgent need for improved traffic management.
Institutional Collaboration for Traffic Solutions
Speaking at the same event, Additional Inspector General (AIG) Karachi Javed Alam Odho stressed the importance of institutional cooperation in tackling traffic congestion and road safety challenges.
He pointed out that ongoing urban development projects contribute to traffic issues and called for the Transport Department’s active role in managing congestion.
“Determining accident responsibility is crucial for taking corrective action,” Odho stated, proposing that each Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) should have a dedicated Accident Analysis Team.
Rising Traffic Fatalities and Motorcycle Surge
Odho revealed concerning road accident statistics, stating that Karachi records four fatalities per 100,000 people daily. So far in the year, 182 people have lost their lives in accidents, including 57 in crashes involving heavy vehicles.
Additionally, 2,211 people have sustained injuries in traffic incidents.
With 4.2 million motorcycles on Karachi’s roads, Odho suggested that expanding public transport options could help reduce dependence on motorbikes.
Traffic Management and Revenue Generation
Despite ongoing challenges, Odho noted some improvement in the city’s traffic situation. Over the past year, 500,000 vehicles have been impounded, generating more than Rs1 billion in traffic fines.
