Quetta: In a decisive move to curb traffic accidents and ensure safety during school hours, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) of Quetta chaired a meeting that resulted in a citywide ban on underage drivers operating tractors and water tankers during school times. The meeting, attended by representatives from the Water Tanker Association and the Consumer Society, laid down stringent regulations to combat the rising number of accidents attributed to underage driving.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Balochistan, the new policy mandates that no underage individuals will be permitted to drive water tankers, and these vehicles will be banned across Quetta during school hours. Violators of this policy will face legal consequences, including the potential arrest of tanker owners and the sealing of water supply facilities involved in these violations. Additionally, the meeting stipulated that all water tanker unions must submit their official documentation to the district administration within a week to avoid a ban.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner highlighted the critical role water tankers play as a lifeline in Quetta, emphasizing the recurrent accidents involving young drivers in areas like Pashtunabad, Sarki Road, Sarki Kalan, Satellite Town, Goalmandi Chowk, and Tareen Road. He underscored the administration’s commitment to stringent daily enforcement measures, directing Assistant Commissioners across all sub-divisions to actively police water tanker operations and ensure compliance with the new regulations.