KARACHI: Senior provincial minister Sharjeel Memon and MQM-Pakistan leader Dr Farooq Sattar have emphasised that Karachi’s recent traffic accidents should not be politicised, calling them a serious humanitarian issue.
Addressing a joint press conference, Memon said a detailed meeting was held with all political parties and transport representatives to discuss the alarming rise in traffic accidents. “This is not a political issue. Every life is precious, and such tragedies must not occur.”
He revealed that the driver involved in the recent accident had been arrested, along with 15 individuals suspected of vandalism. “Political point-scoring on this matter could allow a third force to exploit the situation,” he warned.
Memon acknowledged that Karachi has the highest traffic volume in Pakistan due to its port and heavy vehicles, adding that transporters should also refrain from making political statements. “Compared to Lahore, Karachi has fewer accidents, but recent incidents are receiving increased coverage,” he noted.
Dr Farooq Sattar stressed the need for preventive measures, including driver testing and license verification to curb traffic accidents. “Had timely actions been taken, these tragedies could have been avoided,” he said, urging authorities to determine whether drivers were under the influence.
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He called for immediate compensation for the victims’ families and joint visits to console them.
“Those responsible must be held accountable so that justice is served,” he said, criticising those who failed to express condolences over the loss of over 100 lives in recent traffic accidents.
Sattar further suggested that water tankers should have designated operating hours to prevent congestion and accidents. “We must unite to find solutions rather than giving this issue a political or ethnic angle.”
Earlier on Saturday, the Karachi administration announced new traffic regulations, restricting the movement of heavy vehicles to specific hours and routes.
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The measures, aimed at reducing road accidents, will remain in effect for two months, from February 14 to April 13, 2025.
According to an official notification, heavy traffic will only be allowed on designated routes and within specified hours. Section 144 has been imposed to prevent violations.