Karachi: A motorcyclist was killed and another injured after being hit by a trailer truck near Malir Court, police reported on Thursday. The number of road accidents involving heavy vehicles continues to rise in the metropolis despite growing concerns over traffic safety.
According to police data, at least 118 people have lost their lives in various traffic accidents across Karachi in the past two months. Additionally, 1,303 people have sustained injuries in road accidents this year.
In the latest tragic incident, the trailer truck driver fled the scene after hitting the motorcyclist. Police stated that efforts were underway to apprehend the driver.
The deceased, identified as Amir, was traveling on a motorcycle with his brother-in-law. They had just dropped off their cousin at Cantt Station and were heading toward Quaidabad when a trailer truck struck them near Murghi Khana.
Speaking to the media, Abdul Rehman, a relative of the deceased, revealed that Amir was speech and hearing impaired. He had recently gotten married and was employed in the field of special education.
Amir’s body will be transported to his hometown, Khairpur, for funeral rites, Abdul Rehman added.
Meanwhile, a young motorcyclist, who had been critically injured in an accident near Karsaz, Sharea Faisal, yesterday, succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
The victim, identified as 19-year-old Shakir Ali, was struck by a dumper truck due to speeding, police reported. His body was handed over to his family.
Government’s Response and Safety Measures
With an increasing number of fatal road accidents in Karachi, concerns over traffic management, reckless driving, and the enforcement of road safety regulations continue to grow.
Following a series of dumper truck-related fatalities earlier this month, Sindh’s Senior Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon, addressed the media on February 13 regarding the measures taken by the provincial government to curb rising road accidents.
The Sindh government has mandated the fitness and registration of all heavy transport vehicles. Moving forward, all large transport vehicles must obtain a valid fitness certificate to operate on roads. Vehicles lacking proper certification will be prohibited from use.
Memon stated that the water board has also implemented a barcode system for all registered water tankers operating from authorized hydrants. Only vehicles meeting the required fitness standards will be issued barcodes, while unregistered vehicles will be seized.
Additionally, previously registered vehicles will undergo re-evaluation to ensure continued compliance with safety regulations.
A 30-day grace period has been granted for heavy transport vehicles to obtain fitness certificates.
Furthermore, operational hours for dumper trucks in Karachi have been revised. Previously permitted on roads from 11 PM to 6 PM, dumpers will now only be allowed between 10 PM and 6 AM to ease congestion and enhance public safety.
Speaking later the same day on a television program, Memon stated that it is incorrect to solely blame an individual or institution for road mishaps.
He emphasized that the responsibility falls on all stakeholders, including the government, reckless drivers, and those violating traffic laws.
He further noted that vehicle fitness requirements are not new and that the government is planning to outsource the transport department.
