The Sindh government is set to introduce drastic reforms to its traffic laws, set to impose what are being referred to as the province’s highest traffic fines in history. The initiative, which was meant to reduce recurring violations and enhance road safety in Karachi, was welcomed by the approval of a preliminary draft of amendments by the Cabinet Committee on Motor Vehicle Rules and Traffic Laws.

Historic Fines and Stricter Penalties on the Horizon

The maximum fine for traffic infractions is expected to increase to an unprecedented PKR 300,000 (three lakhs) under the proposed amendments. This notable rise demonstrates the government’s determination to enforce stricter traffic laws. These recommendations have already been approved by the Cabinet subcommittee, which means the Sindh Cabinet will now have the opportunity to approve them.

The ban on international travel will serve as a significant deterrent for repeat offenders. People who have unpaid challans for breaking traffic laws won’t be able to travel abroad.

Key Reforms and Implementation Strategies

Mandatory Vehicle Fitness: Fitness certificates will become compulsory for commercial and non-commercial vehicles.
Ban on Multi-Seater Rickshaws: Four- and six-seater rickshaws will face a complete prohibition.

Increased Fines for Specific Violations:

One-way violations by government vehicles: Two lakh (200,000) rupees.
Wrong-way motorcycle driving: 25,000 rupees.
One-way violations by four-wheelers: One lakh (100,000) rupees.
Driving without a license: 25,000 rupees for motorcycles, 50,000 rupees for cars.
One-wheeling and drifting: One lakh (100,000) rupees for the first offense.

Technological Integration and Advanced Monitoring

Cameras in Goods Vehicles: Goods transport vehicles will be required to equip a minimum of five cameras to enhance accountability and tracking of cargo movement.
Trackers and Sensors on Tankers/Dumpers: Legal mandates will be placed upon water tankers and dumpers to install trackers and sensors, a policy possibly aimed at preventing illegal abstraction of water and negligent driving.
E-Challan System: The traffic e-challans will now be immediately mailed to the home address of the car owner, simplifying the notice process.
System Integration: The excise, transport, and traffic departments will have their systems integrated, making it a more integrated and effective enforcement system. It will also imply that no unpaid traffic challans can be transferred or sold.

Crackdown on Illicit Modifications and Special Courts

In an attempt to prevent illegal alterations and improve road decorum, the government has made a decision to enforce a prohibition on the in-shop and online sale of black tinted windows, fancy lights, and horns.

Additionally, to speed up the hearing of traffic offense cases, the government has made a suggestion to appoint special magistrates specifically responsible for such cases.

The final draft of these revised laws and regulations will then be put before the Sindh Cabinet for approval, a major step towards an improved, regulated, and secure traffic culture in Karachi.