IN Karachi, the traffic police lay out traps at some traffic intersections to get hold of motorists and have some ‘fun’ at their cost. One such trap is the traffic signal at the intersection of Khayaban-i-Bahria and Khayaban-i-Hafiz in the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) area. Despite heavy traffic in the evening on Khayaban-i-Bahria, the traffic light turns green only for a few seconds. There are no decreasing numbers on the light, and it suddenly goes red without the intervening amber light.

When a driver few cars behind in the queue starts crossing the signal at the green light, it suddenly turns red. The group of waiting constables pounce upon the last car coming straight on Khayaban-i-Bahria, and start a conversation with the driver politely after shaking hands. The end result, however, is not as pleasant for the driver concerned.

As the path is my daily route in the evening, I have seen this irritating drama unfold many a time. On Sept 20, my car was stopped at this very signal by the waiting constables. I requested them not to trap the motorists in this manner, and better make the warning signs operational before stopping anyone for alleged traffic violation.

To my utter surprise, they agreed with me and let me go on. But not everyone is as lucky. The relevant authorities should take corrective steps in this regard.

Parvez Rahim
Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 2nd, 2024