KARACHI: In response to a surge in traffic accidents, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has ordered a series of stringent measures to enhance road safety and protect lives across Karachi. The directives include mandatory installation of safety equipment on various vehicles and random drug testing for drivers, alongside the introduction of a point-based demerit system for traffic violations.

The chief minister convened a high-level meeting attended by key provincial officials, emphasizing the urgent need for improved traffic discipline. Shah has mandated that Heavy Transport Vehicles (HTVs), Light Transport Vehicles (LTVs), and Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) be fitted with trackers, dashcams, and underrun protection devices.

Additionally, measures to curb water tanker-related hazards have been outlined. Tankers with defective containers will be banned from the roads. The CM also directed that vehicles with canceled fitness certificates be impounded until deemed roadworthy.

A key initiative involves random drug tests for drivers of HTVs, LTVs, and PSVs. Law enforcement will also enforce speed limits, with HTVs restricted to 30 km/h within city limits to mitigate accident risks.

To streamline enforcement, the Home Minister was tasked with implementing a transparent e-ticketing system. An inter-departmental digital integration has also been proposed to enhance coordination among the Transport Department, Excise Department, Licensing Authority, Traffic Police, and NADRA.

The Traffic Engineering Bureau will undergo a revamp under Mayor Karachi’s authority for better traffic control, while pre-licensing training will become compulsory. A demerit point system will be introduced, with penalties for violations ranging from minor to severe, impacting drivers’ licenses.

Furthermore, the Excise and Taxation department and police are set to clamp down on illegal vehicle modifications and traffic violations. An implementation committee has been formed to ensure these measures are executed promptly through executive orders and legal amendments.

Chief Minister Shah stressed the importance of these steps, declaring, “We must act decisively. The lives of our citizens are far too valuable to be lost due to negligence and poor enforcement.” The initiatives aim to make Karachi’s roads safer for its citizens.