Karachi has seen a sharp increase in traffic-related fatalities in 2025, with 108 deaths reported so far. Of these, 72 occurred in urban areas, while 24 were recorded in suburban regions, The News International reported.
The surge in accidents, particularly those involving heavy vehicles like dumper trucks, has heightened concerns over road safety and regulation.
One major accident occurred near Mai Kolachi, where a freight train collided with a trailer, followed by an oil tanker crashing into them from behind. The impact crushed the front of the oil tanker, trapping its driver inside. Rescue teams worked intensively to free him, eventually succeeding after prolonged efforts. Authorities confirmed that no railway crossing existed at the crash site, and steps were taken to transfer oil from the damaged tanker to prevent further hazards.
The crash caused severe congestion on Mai Kolachi Road, leading police to divert traffic. While routes from Boat Basin to Jinnah Bridge were reopened, the section from Mai Kolachi to Boat Basin remained closed, with vehicles redirected through alternative roads.
In another fatal accident, a person lost their life in Malir’s Memon Goth. Initially, reports suggested the involvement of a dumper truck, but later investigations found no evidence confirming this. Authorities are continuing inquiries into the incident.
Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon addressed the growing crisis on Thursday, outlining government measures to curb the increasing number of road accidents. Following a high-level meeting chaired by the chief minister, officials decided to enforce strict fitness and registration checks for all heavy transport vehicles. Moving forward, large vehicles must have valid fitness certificates, and those failing to meet standards will be barred from operating.
Additionally, a barcode system has been introduced for registered water tankers operating from authorised hydrants. Only vehicles that pass safety inspections will receive barcodes, while unregistered ones will be seized.
Previously registered heavy vehicles will also undergo re-evaluation, with a 30-day grace period granted for compliance with certification requirements.
To reduce congestion and improve road safety, dumper truck operating hours in Karachi have been revised. Previously allowed on roads from 11:00 pm to 6:00 pm, dumpers will now be restricted to operating between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.
Speaking on Geo Pakistan, Memon stressed that the rise in road accidents cannot be blamed on a single entity, highlighting shared responsibility between the government, reckless drivers, and those violating traffic laws. He also indicated that the government is considering outsourcing the transport department to improve regulatory enforcement.
15th Feb 2025
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