In a bid to improve road safety and streamline traffic flow, Karachi’s traffic police have introduced new regulations with strict penalties for violators, reported 24News HD TV channel on Sunday.
The measures target heavy vehicles, motorcyclists, and rickshaws, aiming to curb reckless driving and reduce accidents across the city.
Under the new directives, heavy vehicles must now be equipped with side railings and under-run bars to prevent accidents.
Similarly, oil tankers must install buffer plates for additional safety.
Additionally, drivers of heavy vehicles and oil tankers will undergo drug and fatigue tests to minimize risks associated with drowsy or impaired driving.
Traffic authorities have also tightened regulations for motorcyclists, making the various actions mandatory, including helmet use for all riders, functional headlights, and proper chain covers. Clear and legible number plates, besides bikers must stick to the left lane, and violators will face fines.
The city’s traffic police have deployed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to monitor reckless driving, including jumping red lights, switching lanes carelessly, repeat offenders will face a hefty Rs2,500 fine, discouraging habitual violations.
The authorities also ban Qingqi rickshaws on major roads, including Shahrah-e-Faisal and Rashid Minhas Road.
This decision aims to reduce congestion and ensure smoother traffic flow in high-traffic areas.
GPS tracking systems for monitoring movement will be utilised to ensure compliance with road safety protocols.