The decision follows an emergency meeting led by Chief Secretary Sindh, Asif Hyder Shah, where top officials—including the Sindh Inspector General (IG) of Police, Karachi Commissioner, Additional IG, Secretary Transport, and DIG Traffic—convened to address the growing traffic crisis in Karachi.
Under the new regulation, heavy vehicles can only operate in the city between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.Under this system, vehicles will be subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Motorcycles account for 65% of the total vehicles in Karachi and contribute to 55% of road accidents. Given these alarming statistics, authorities will strictly enforce helmet laws and crack down on reckless riding. Motorcyclists failing to comply with safety rules will face penalties and legal action.
Key Traffic Control Measures Announced
The Sindh government has implemented a series of stringent measures to regulate the movement of heavy vehicles and ensure road safety:
- All heavy vehicles will undergo strict inspections to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Every commercial vehicle must obtain a QR Code-certified certificate from the Transport Department.
- This digital system will help authorities track and regulate vehicles more efficiently.
The Traffic Engineering Bureau (TEB) is being revamped and strengthened to tackle Karachi’s chronic traffic issues. The bureau will work on:
- Optimizing road infrastructure to improve vehicle flow.
- Redesigning intersections and traffic signals for better efficiency.
- Implementing data-driven traffic management solutions to minimize congestion.
Karachi’s Struggles with Heavy Traffic
The ban on daytime entry of dumpers and heavy vehicles is not a new concept.
In April 2017, the Sindh government imposed a 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM restriction on heavy vehicles entering Karachi.
- Exemptions were made for vehicles carrying essential goods like medical supplies and food items.
- The caretaker Chief Minister, retired Justice Maqbool Baqar, reiterated the ban.
- A sharp rise in fatal accidents involving dumpers and tankers sparked outrage among residents and opposition leaders.
- The Sindh Governor, Kamran Tessori, called for immediate action against reckless dumpers.