Sindh Launches Strict Traffic Plan to Improve Road Safety, Heavy Fines Introduced

Karachi:  The Sindh government has announced a new traffic enforcement plan to improve road safety and reduce accidents across the province. The updated rules include heavy fines and a demerit point system for traffic violations.

The plan was introduced through amendments to the Twelfth Schedule of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance, 1965. Officials said the aim is to change reckless driving habits and save lives, not just collect fines.

Sindh Information and Transport Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the new measures target over speeding, signal breaking, one-wheeling, wrong-way driving, overloading, and driving without a valid licence — all of which are major causes of accidents.

Under the new system, fines have been increased depending on the vehicle type:

• Rs5,000 for motorcycle over speeding

• Rs15,000 for cars

• Rs20,000 for heavy vehicles
  Driving without a valid license can result in a fine up to Rs50,000, while reckless driving carries a penalty of Rs25,000.

Additional penalties will apply to:

• Motorcyclists riding without helmets

• Vehicles with tinted windows

• Vehicles carrying passengers on rooftops

Drivers violating these rules will also receive demerit points, and repeat offenders may have their licences suspended or cancelled.

Sharjeel Memon said a digital monitoring system will track violations and identify repeat offenders. “We are introducing a modern traffic system like those in developed countries,” he said. “Our goal is to save lives, not just issue challans.”

He added that public awareness campaigns will be launched to encourage responsible driving. “Following traffic laws is a shared responsibility. Safe driving protects everyone,” he said.

The minister urged citizens to cooperate with traffic police and warned that over speeding and signal violations are not minor mistakes but actions that can cause deaths.

Meanwhile, the federal government has also tightened traffic enforcement on motorways. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan said drivers exceeding 120 km/h will face fines, while those going over 150 km/h may face criminal charges.

He directed motorway police to ensure full enforcement of over speeding and axle-load rules. “Accidents can only be prevented through awareness, strict monitoring, and enforcement,” he added.