Karachi Commissioner Mandates Cameras and Trackers in Heavy Vehicles Following Accident Surge

Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi has mandated the installation of cameras and trackers in heavy traffic vehicles (HTVs). This directive follows a notable increase in traffic incidents throughout the city.

The decision was made after successful discussions between goods transporters and Commissioner Karachi, which brought an end to their strike that had significantly disrupted port operations and commerce within the area.

A crucial outcome of the talks was the commissioner’s order for all HTVs, including dump trucks, water tankers, and oil tankers, to be outfitted with three cameras.

According to Imdad Naqvi, a representative from the goods transporters association, the camera setup will include one mounted on the front of the vehicle, one at the back, and one positioned inside to monitor the driver’s condition.

Over 250 people have died in traffic-related incidents, with 85 of those fatalities involving heavy vehicles. The rising number of deaths sparked public anger and protests, leading to instances of heavy vehicles being set ablaze.

The Sindh government previously implemented a daytime ban on heavy vehicle movement in Karachi, along with strict measures such as a speed limit of 30 km/h for HTVs.

The commissioner has also issued strict orders, preventing dumpers from operating on Karachi’s roads between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

These strict rules were a key discussion point during the negotiations, which began the night before and continued into the morning.

Safety guardrails will also be installed along the tires of HTVs. In addition, these vehicles will be equipped with trackers to improve accountability and assist in investigations following accidents.

Imdad added that the data from these trackers will be available at the DIG Traffic office, allowing authorities to track vehicles involved in hit-and-run incidents.

The goods transporters association has also committed to ensuring the roadworthiness of all large vehicles, including dumpers and tankers, within a three-to-six-month timeframe.

Progress reports on vehicle weight and the execution of safety measures will be provided to the commissioner and DIG every 10 days.

While acknowledging the advancements, Imdad mentioned that the government’s initial deadline of May 1 for implementing these measures was not practical.