On the directives of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the Karachi traffic police have intensified their crackdown on vehicles violating traffic laws. This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to bring discipline to the roads, and reduce accidents caused by heavy traffic and unauthorised vehicles.
Since April 9 the authorities have impounded 31,677 motorbikes, while action has been taken against 2,719 vehicles for violations such as fancy number plates and tinted windows. A total of 515 heavy and light traffic vehicles have been impounded. Furthermore, motor vehicle inspectors have recommended 25 registrations for cancellation, and suggested 491 registrations for temporary suspension with conditional release.
A parallel operation targeting Qingqi/motorcycle rickshaws (MCRs), launched on April 16, has resulted in 104 FIRs being registered under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), 33 FIRs under Section 341 of the PPC, and one FIR for rash driving.
A total of 311 MCRs have been impounded and marked as court property, with 311 drivers arrested. Additionally, 7,069 fine tickets have been issued, and 32 illegal LPG/CNG kits seized.
In a significant development aimed at preventing heavy traffic accidents, the government has made concrete progress in implementing its policy to instal mandatory GPS trackers in heavy vehicles such as dumpers and water tankers.
As of May 4, 3,391 water tankers operating in the city have been installed with GPS trackers. Additionally, 28 dumpers, 82 oil tankers, 214 passenger buses and 214 small trucks have had trackers installed. The system also covers 2,763 large trucks and 137 trailers operating within the city.
The CM said the installation of GPS trackers would assist in monitoring and managing heavy vehicle movements, thereby playing a key role in reducing accidents on the city’s busy roads. He reiterated the government’s firm stance on enforcing road safety regulations, and called on all vehicle owners to comply with legal requirements. The crackdown and safety enforcement measures are expected to continue with increased vigilance in the coming weeks.