The Sindh government has introduced a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour (km/h) for heavy transport vehicles (HTVs) in Karachi in an attempt to tackle the city’s growing traffic problems, Express News expressed Tuesday.

The decision comes as part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving road safety and enforcing stricter rules on vehicles.

A meeting with a high level as chairman of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah was held in Karachi to discuss urgent traffic issues.

The meeting included the most important provincial ministers, the mayor of Karachi and senior police officers. During the discussions, several important decisions were made, including mandatory installation of trackers and dash cams in all heavy, light and public service vehicles.

The Minister of Ministry emphasized that all vehicles, both tongue and light, must install protective devices underly dry, and water tankers must not operate without the right fittings.

He warned that fitness certificates for vehicles missing this protection would be revoked and non-compatible vehicles would be seized. Future permits for such vehicles will only be granted on the department’s approval.

To streamline traffic management, the government also announced the introduction of a ticketing system that will be fully automated and cashless.

Transport, excise duties, license, traffic police and Nadra departments will be associated with improved coordination.

In addition, the Minister of Chief ordered a renewal of the Traffic Engineering Bureau and its integration under the mayor of Karachi’s administration.

In an attempt to ensure road safety, the government will also require international standard training before issuing a driver’s license and introducing a Demerit Point system for licensee.

A crash will also be launched against illegal license plates, toned windows, unauthorized sirens and uncertain motorcycles.

By tackling the question of traffic accidents, the minister of chief expressed his concern about the increasing number of fatalities and injuries in the city.

He called on the traffic and district police to cooperate to reduce traffic accidents and highlight the importance of protecting human life.

During the briefing, Karachi’s inspector for police shared that by 2024 over 1.6 million traffic violations were registered, with a total of RS 133.6 million collected in fines.

He also reported that 512,190 vehicles were targeted in operation and 11,287 drivers were arrested.