Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: Karachi’s Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic has said that fines for traffic violations should be set high enough to deter people from breaking the law, stressing the need for strict enforcement to improve road discipline and public safety.
Speaking at a ceremony of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, DIG Traffic Karachi Pir Muhammad Shah said that an e-ticketing system was developed within six months using local software and that young staff were specially trained to operate the modern enforcement system. The Sindh government introduced the e-ticketing system in October last year as part of broader traffic management reforms.
He said that during the first five months of the current year, traffic accidents in Karachi dropped by 30 percent compared to the previous year. According to official figures, accidents declined from 445 last year to 308 this year, while fatalities also fell from 445 to 345 over the same period. Injuries decreased from 886 to 569.
The DIG noted a significant reduction in major accidents involving heavy vehicles, which dropped from 155 last year to 75 this year. He attributed the improvement to stricter monitoring, camera surveillance, and better enforcement of traffic laws.
He added that digital monitoring systems have improved public behavior on roads, with more drivers now complying with seatbelt rules and traffic regulations. He stressed that consistent enforcement is necessary to eliminate double standards in road safety awareness.
Highlighting past challenges, he said Karachi’s traffic system had once been considered a model in the 1970s, but declined over the past four decades. To address this, the traffic flow unit and drone monitoring systems were introduced, which, according to him, have been positively received by around 70 percent of the public.
He further stated that underage driving is strictly prohibited, and the minimum fine for motorcycle violations is Rs2,500 under Sindh government legislation. He also emphasized that wearing helmets prevents penalties and enhances safety.
Officials said the traffic flow unit has been tasked with reducing congestion, identifying 34 key choke points across the city, and taking action against illegal parking and encroachments that disrupt traffic movement.
Authorities reiterated that strict fines and modern enforcement systems are essential to improving compliance and ensuring safer roads in Karachi.
