Lack of functional tail lights causing surge in road accidents: PMA

An alarming 70 per cent of motorbikes, scooters and rickshaws in Karachi are plying the roads without functional tail lights, significantly increasing the risk of road traffic accidents, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has warned.

The PMA expressed concern over the widespread lack of operational rear lights, particularly at night, which leads to collisions, severe trauma and a growing burden on the city’s already strained healthcare system.

According to the PMA, this alarming situation is exacerbated by the failure of the traffic police to enforce the road safety laws, as the authorities instead of penalising, appear to facilitate those driving on the wrong side of the road, while law-abiding drivers are often ignored.

“The absence of tail lights on a majority of two- and three-wheelers, especially at night, turns them into invisible moving hazards, leading to tragic accidents. This is a serious public health crisis, and the negligence in enforcing the traffic rules is costing lives daily.”

The PMA emphasised that a significant number of road-related deaths and disabilities in Karachi stem from the blatant disregard for the traffic laws. Unlit motorbikes and rickshaws, especially on poorly lit roads, are frequently hit by speeding vehicles.

Many of these accidents result in fatalities or lifelong disabilities, burdening hospitals with an influx of emergency cases, including head injuries, fractures and internal trauma. The PMA also highlighted the need for improved traffic management near schools during peak hours. The safety of children remains at risk due to reckless driving, poor enforcement of speed limits and the absence of traffic control near educational institutions.

Urging immediate intervention, the PMA called on the traffic police and other relevant authorities to enforce the regulations requiring vehicles to have functional tail lights. The PMA stressed that routine inspections, fines for non-compliance and awareness campaigns can play a critical role in mitigating the crisis.

“Road safety is not just about laws; it is about saving lives. Enforcing the traffic regulations, ensuring vehicles are roadworthy and controlling violations like wrong-side driving are urgent needs.”

Karachi’s deteriorating traffic discipline and lack of road safety measures continue to result in avoidable tragedies. Experts warn that without immediate action, the city would continue to see an increase in preventable road accidents, overwhelming hospitals and endangering thousands of lives daily.