Driving in Sindh just got a lot more expensive. The Sindh government recently made significant amendments to the motor vehicle law, introducing hefty fines for traffic violations and implementing new regulations to enhance road safety. One of the most striking changes is the substantial increase in fines for wrong-way driving, with car drivers facing a penalty of Rs100,000 and motorcyclists Rs25,000 for such violations.
This decision came after a meeting chaired by Home Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar, where amendments to the Motor Vehicles Rules were discussed. The meeting, which included key officials like Excise Minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla, the law secretary, transport secretary, and DIG Traffic, also addressed other crucial issues impacting road safety in the region.
In addition to the fines for wrong-way driving, the government has set fines at Rs200,000 for government vehicles, Rs100,000 for other four-wheelers, and Rs25,000 for motorcycles caught driving in the wrong direction. The penalties for driving without a valid license have also been significantly increased, with motorcyclists facing a fine of Rs25,000 and car drivers Rs50,000 for this offense.
Furthermore, the government has imposed strict penalties for dangerous driving behaviors such as one-wheeling or drifting. A first-time offense will result in a Rs100,000 fine, with subsequent violations carrying penalties of up to Rs300,000. These measures aim to deter reckless driving practices and improve road safety in the region.
These amendments come in response to a surge in traffic accidents, particularly those involving dumpers and water tankers, which claimed the lives of nearly 500 people and injured thousands in 2024. The government is taking proactive steps to address the root causes of these accidents and prevent future tragedies on the roads of Sindh.
One significant decision made during the meeting was the complete ban on four-seater rickshaws. The excise minister emphasized the importance of enforcing traffic regulations effectively and ensuring that no registration or route permits are issued for these vehicles. This move is intended to reduce accidents caused by collisions between rickshaws and larger vehicles like trucks.
Additionally, the government has mandated the installation of trackers and sensors on water tankers and dumpers to enhance monitoring and ensure compliance with safety regulations. A comprehensive draft of the new regulations will be prepared and submitted for approval, signaling a commitment to strengthening road safety measures in the region.
To streamline traffic management and enforcement, the government plans to interlink the traffic, transport, and excise systems and move operations online. This digital transformation will enable more efficient monitoring of traffic violations and ensure timely enforcement of penalties.
In conclusion, the recent amendments to the motor vehicle law in Sindh represent a significant step towards enhancing road safety and reducing traffic violations in the region. By imposing stricter fines for traffic offenses, banning four-seater rickshaws, and implementing new regulations, the government is prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and working towards creating safer roads for all. These measures underscore the government’s commitment to promoting responsible driving practices and reducing the incidence of road accidents in Sindh.
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