Karachi witnessed another tragic day as reckless driving claimed six lives and injured three others in separate incidents. These accidents occurred just a day after the city’s police chief established the Karachi Road Accident Analysis Team (Kraat) to investigate the increasing number of traffic accidents, particularly those involving heavy vehicles.
Deadly Accidents Across the City
Karachi Traffic Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Pir Mohammed Shah confirmed the fatalities, detailing each incident.
Early in the morning, a Bykea rider and a passenger were hit by an unknown vehicle near the Japan consulate. The impact threw them onto the footpath. They were rushed to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), where the passenger was pronounced dead. The Bykea rider survived but remains under medical care.
In Liaquatabad, a pedestrian named Mohammed Shahid lost his life in a hit-and-run accident. According to Sharifabad police, an unidentified vehicle struck him while he was crossing the street.
Another fatal accident occurred on Northern Bypass in Manghopir, where a motorcyclist was hit by an unknown vehicle. A witness reported that a bus was involved. Manghopir police later identified the deceased as Wali Deedar.
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Heavy Vehicles and Traffic Law Concerns
The city’s struggle with heavy vehicle accidents continued. Mauripur police reported that Bashir Ahmed, 40, was hit by a trailer while transporting doors in a Suzuki van near Muslim Kanta. He died instantly. The drivers fled, leaving behind their vehicles, which the police impounded.
Near Qayumabad Bridge, a trailer hit a motorcycle, killing one rider and critically injuring another. Their identities remain unknown. In Korangi’s Nasir Jump area, an 18-year-old named Immanuel Shahbaz succumbed to injuries after a separate crash.
These accidents highlight Karachi’s growing traffic crisis, despite recent efforts to control reckless driving and heavy vehicle movement.
Government Efforts and Public Concerns
In response to increasing fatalities, the Sindh government recently imposed restrictions on heavy vehicles. Dumpers and trailers can now operate only between 11 PM and 6 AM. Additionally, all heavy vehicles must pass a mandatory fitness test.
Despite these measures, critics argue that enforcement remains weak. Human rights activists claim the rising death toll reflects poor traffic management and inadequate law enforcement. Provincial lawmakers from Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) have also slammed the traffic police for failing to control reckless heavy vehicles. In January alone, over 80 people lost their lives due to such accidents.
A Long Road Ahead
The Karachi Road Accident Analysis Team (Kraat) has begun investigating accident causes, starting with a fatal crash near Frere Hall. However, officials admit it will be a painstaking process to determine solutions.
While authorities scramble to curb reckless driving, Karachi’s roads remain dangerous. Unless stricter enforcement and long-term traffic reforms are implemented, the city’s growing number of fatal accidents will continue to put lives at risk.
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