Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Karachi, Pir Muhammad Shah, said that modern traffic monitoring and management measures have led to nearly a 30 percent reduction in traffic-related fatalities within six months.
Speaking to industrialists and the business community at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), he stated that 447 fatal traffic accidents were reported during the same period last year, compared to 308 this year, reflecting a significant decline.
The event was attended by KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput, Vice President Muhammad Talha Ali, former President Junaid Naqi, Ehteshamuddin, Sheikh Fazal-e-Jalil, Syed Farrukh Mazhar, Tariq Malik, Israr Ahmed, SSP Traffic Korangi Israr Ahmed Changezi, SSP Traffic East Amjad Hayat, SSP Traffic Malir Muhammad Tahir Khan, DSP Korangi Qalandar Bakhsh Narejo, along with a large number of members and industrialists.
Pir Muhammad Shah said police statistics also showed a substantial reduction in serious injuries resulting from traffic accidents. Severe injury cases dropped from 806 last year to 569 this year, recording a decline of more than 300 cases. Deaths caused by heavy vehicles also decreased significantly 50 percent from 155 to 75.
He emphasized that road discipline and traffic behavior reflect a society’s civic values and collective consciousness. According to him, extensive reforms introduced in recent months to modernize Karachi’s traffic management system are beginning to deliver measurable results.
“Every month, valuable lives are being saved because of these reforms,” he said, adding that public attitudes have also improved. He noted that while seatbelt use was once limited, even app-based drivers now generally do not begin trips until passengers fasten their seat belts.
To address traffic management challenges, he said the department has established a Traffic Flow Unit and a Traffic Drone Unit. Currently, traffic monitoring is conducted using 1,300 surveillance cameras, with an additional 2,250 to be installed in the next phase.
The DIG Traffic reiterated that there would be zero tolerance for underage driving, adding that the minimum fine for motorcycle violations is Rs2,500, enforced under existing government legislation.
He further said encroachments and illegal parking remain major causes of traffic congestion. Authorities have identified 34 critical traffic bottlenecks across the city, where targeted interventions are being implemented.
Earlier, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput said Karachi’s industrial activity and economic growth are directly linked to an efficient traffic system. He appreciated the traffic police’s use of modern technology, the e-challan system, and measures introduced to improve traffic discipline.
Rajput said the business community would continue supporting government institutions in promoting public awareness and compliance with traffic laws. He added that Karachi’s e-challan system aligns with standards adopted in developed cities such as Dubai and London. He called for upgrading the Korangi Facilitation Center and recommended launching public awareness programs at multiple levels. He stressed that improved arrangements are necessary to maintain smooth traffic flow.
Rajput also proposed a series of measures, including effective traffic management in Korangi Industrial Area and adjoining roads, consultation-based policies for heavy vehicle movement, increased deployment and monitoring by traffic police in industrial zones, continuous action against encroachments and illegal parking, upgraded road markings and traffic signage, improved verification and complaint resolution mechanisms within the e-challan system, clear lane markings on major roads, and the formulation of a joint traffic improvement plan involving traffic police, municipal authorities, and the industrial community.
Former KATI President Junaid Naqi said urban discipline and modern traffic administration are essential features of developed societies. He emphasized the enforcement of laws related to vehicle fitness, axle load limits, and the regulated movement of heavy traffic during night hours.
KATI Vice President Muhammad Talha Ali noted that VIP movements, protests, and sit-ins on major roads often disrupt traffic flow and require comprehensive planning. He said improved traffic management would not only ease daily life for citizens but also positively impact business activity and supply chains in industrial areas.
Other speakers at the event included former presidents and chairpersons Ehteshamuddin, Sheikh Fazal-e-Jalil, Tariq Malik, and Dr. Zahid Ansari.
