MILITARY
The alarming rise in traffic accidents in Karachi, with 10 fatalities in just the last 48 hours, has prompted Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho to announce new measures aimed at improving road safety and reducing deaths caused by accidents. According to Odho, the increasing number of accidents, especially those involving motorcycle riders and heavy vehicles like dumpers and water tankers, has reached an unacceptable level.
Measures to Curb the Traffic Issues
In response to these concerns, Javed Alam Odho stated that dumpers, water tankers, and other large trailers, often essential for development projects, will now be restricted from entering the city during the day. This new rule aims to reduce congestion and the risks associated with heavy vehicles on the roads during peak hours. These vehicles will only be allowed to enter the city after 11 pm to minimize accidents.
Odho also pointed out that 57% of traffic accident fatalities in Karachi are caused by motorcycle riders, a stark reminder of the city’s traffic issues. He noted that the high speed of heavy vehicles has been a significant factor in these accidents, and immediate action is required to curb the rising number of casualties.
Steps for Accountability and Safety
To further tighten the safety measures, Odho announced that drivers arrested for traffic violations, especially those involving fatalities, will not be granted bail at the police station for bailable offenses. Instead, suspects will be required to seek bail through the courts, signaling a stricter approach to addressing reckless driving.
Additionally, he emphasized that negligence by smaller vehicles was also a major contributing factor, as 57% of accidents are linked to negligent driving by smaller vehicles. To tackle this, the police have deployed additional personnel in industrial areas and suburban zones, where most of the accidents occur, and have ramped up efforts to monitor the activities of large vehicles.
Hope for Change with Media Collaboration
Odho also expressed hope that media cooperation would help raise awareness of these efforts. As part of a broader campaign, the police are actively trying to educate citizens on traffic safety and the importance of adhering to road regulations.
Conclusion
With heavy traffic and reckless driving being key factors behind Karachi’s rising death toll from road accidents, the city's police are taking a more aggressive stance against violators. While the measures are a step in the right direction, the cooperation of the public, media, and authorities will be crucial to creating a safer road environment in Karachi.