Introduction
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, is facing a disturbing rise in traffic accidents, leading to significant public concern. Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori has officially requested Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to establish a high-level commission to investigate and address this critical issue. The commission aims to identify the root causes of traffic violations and implement solutions to ensure public safety.
Governor Tessori’s Request for a Commission
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, in a formal letter to the Chief Minister, highlighted the alarming increase in traffic accidents, primarily caused by reckless driving, particularly by heavy vehicle operators such as dumpers, trailers, and water tankers. The proposed commission, to be led by the Chief Secretary, is expected to:
- Examine the causes of increasing road accidents
- Identify accountability for traffic violations
- Propose policies to improve road safety
- Ensure strict enforcement of traffic laws
Recent Surge in Traffic Accidents
According to the Chhipa Welfare Association, Karachi has witnessed a significant rise in road fatalities within the first 45 days of 2025:
- Total Deaths: 107
- Men: 78
- Women: 14
- Children: 11
- Girls: 4
Additionally, the number of injured individuals has also increased significantly:
- Total Injured: 1,493
- Men: 1,290
- Women: 193
- Children: 42
- Girls: 18
These alarming statistics underline the need for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.
Legal and Administrative Concerns
Traffic Law Violations
Governor Tessori has pointed out administrative negligence and legal violations as major contributors to the increasing traffic fatalities in Karachi. Heavy vehicles continue to operate during restricted hours despite existing court orders, leading to accidents and endangering public safety.
High Court Involvement
Previously, Governor Tessori wrote to the Sindh High Court (SHC) Chief Justice, urging immediate action on the rising traffic fatalities. He emphasized that:
- Court orders restricting heavy traffic between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM are frequently violated.
- Despite legal measures, heavy vehicles continue to enter the city unchecked.
- Administrative negligence has exacerbated the problem, leading to repeated fatal accidents.
The governor requested the High Court to ensure the strict implementation of its orders to curb further incidents.
Government Actions to Curb Traffic Accidents
Temporary Ban on Heavy Traffic
In response to the crisis, Karachi Division Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi announced a complete ban on heavy traffic in the city during daytime for two months. The restrictions, effective from February 14 to April 13, 2025, include:
- A ban on dumpers carrying construction materials
- Prohibition of mixture machines and other heavy vehicles
- Restricted movement within city limits from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
This decision aims to reduce congestion and minimize road accidents by limiting the presence of large vehicles during peak hours.
The Need for a Comprehensive Strategy
Root Causes of Traffic Accidents
The rising number of traffic accidents in Karachi can be attributed to several factors:
- Reckless Driving: Many drivers of heavy vehicles do not adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations.
- Lack of Law Enforcement: Ineffective implementation of traffic laws allows violations to continue.
- Poor Road Infrastructure: Many roads are not designed to accommodate heavy traffic, leading to congestion and accidents.
- Untrained Drivers: Many truck and dumper drivers operate without proper licenses or training.
- Lack of Awareness: General public and drivers often lack knowledge of traffic safety measures.
Possible Solutions to Improve Road Safety
To effectively address the issue of rising traffic accidents, the following measures should be implemented:
- Stricter Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Ensure that court-mandated restrictions on heavy traffic are strictly followed.
- Driver Training Programs: Introduce compulsory training for heavy vehicle operators.
- Improved Road Infrastructure: Develop dedicated routes for heavy vehicles to minimize their interaction with urban traffic.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens about road safety to reduce pedestrian-related accidents.
- Strict Penalties for Violators: Implement heavy fines and strict legal actions against reckless drivers.
FAQs
1. Why is there a rise in traffic accidents in Karachi?
The increase in traffic accidents is primarily due to reckless driving, lack of law enforcement, poor road infrastructure, and violations by heavy vehicle operators.
2. What actions has the Sindh government taken to address this issue?
The Sindh government has temporarily banned heavy traffic in Karachi from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM for two months to reduce congestion and prevent accidents.
3. How can road safety be improved in Karachi?
Improvements in law enforcement, driver training, road infrastructure, and strict penalties for violators can help enhance road safety in Karachi.
4. What role does the Sindh High Court play in traffic regulations?
The SHC has previously issued orders restricting heavy traffic in Karachi, but complaints of non-compliance continue to rise. The governor has urged the court to enforce these orders more strictly.
5. How can the public contribute to reducing traffic accidents?
Citizens can contribute by following traffic laws, reporting violations, using designated pedestrian crossings, and participating in road safety awareness programs.
Conclusion
The rising number of traffic accidents in Karachi is a serious concern that requires immediate intervention. Governor Tessori’s proposal for a high-level commission is a step in the right direction. However, for lasting change, the government, law enforcement agencies, and the public must work together to ensure safer roads. Strict implementation of traffic laws, improved road infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns will be key to making Karachi a safer city for all.
