Karachi (HRNW)- DIG Traffic Karachi Pir Muhammad Shah has said that traffic fines should be high enough to discourage people from violating the law, emphasizing that strict enforcement is essential for improving road safety and traffic discipline.
Addressing a function organized by the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah said that the locally developed e-ticketing software was completed in just six months and that young personnel received special training to operate the modern system. He noted that the Sindh government implemented the e-ticketing system in October last year.
According to the DIG Traffic, Karachi has witnessed a significant improvement in road safety, with traffic accidents declining by 30 percent in the first five months of this year compared to the same period last year. He said that 445 accidents were reported last year, while 308 accidents have occurred so far this year. Similarly, the number of deaths in traffic accidents has fallen from 445 to 345.
Pir Muhammad Shah further stated that 155 accidents involving heavy vehicles were recorded last year, while 75 major accidents have been reported so far this year. The number of people injured in traffic accidents has also decreased from 886 last year to 569 this year.
He credited the camera monitoring system for bringing a positive change in public behavior, noting that seat belt usage has increased considerably. He said taxi drivers now ensure passengers fasten their seat belts before starting a journey. He also stressed the importance of uniform implementation of traffic laws to set a positive example for children.
The DIG Traffic recalled that Karachi’s traffic management system was once regarded as a model in the 1970s but had deteriorated significantly over the past four decades. To address the issue, the Traffic Flow Unit and Traffic Drone Unit were introduced, receiving support from around 70 percent of citizens.
He reiterated that no leniency is shown to underage drivers and that the minimum challan for motorcycle violations is Rs 2,500 under legislation enacted by the Sindh government. He added that citizens who wear helmets and follow traffic rules can avoid fines altogether.
Pir Muhammad Shah said that high fines are a global practice aimed at deterring violations. He also highlighted the role of the Traffic Flow Unit in reducing congestion, noting that 34 locations affected by encroachments and traffic bottlenecks have been identified. The unit also takes action against vehicles parked illegally on roads.
He concluded by saying that compliance with traffic laws is a shared responsibility and necessary to meet the requirements of a modern and organized society.
HRNW relies on the support of its readers to continue delivering credible and timely news. If you would like to support our journalism, please consider making a donation:
HRNW Donation Page
