KARACHI: A senior police officer has claimed that the introduction of modern traffic monitoring and management measures in the metropolis has led to nearly a 30 per cent reduction in traffic-related fatalities within six months.

Speaking to industrialists and the business community at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (Kati), DIG-Traffic Peer Muhammad Shah said currently, traffic monitoring is being carried out through 1,300 surveillance cameras, while an additional 2,250 cameras will be installed in the next phase.

He said that 447 fatal traffic accidents were reported during the same period last year, compared to 308 this year, reflecting a significant decline.

DIG 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.

Says 1,300 traffic cameras operational, 2,250 more planned across city

Deaths caused by heavy vehicles also decreased significantly, 50 per cent from 155 to 75.

He emphasised that road discipline and traffic behaviour reflect a society’s civic values and collective consciousness. According to him, extensive reforms introduced in recent months to modernise 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.

To address traffic management challenges, he said that the department has established a Traffic Flow Unit and a Traffic Drone Unit.

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.

Rajput said the business community would continue to support government institutions in promoting public awareness and compliance with traffic laws.

He called for the upgradation of the Korangi Facilitation Centre. He stressed that improved arrangements are necessary to maintain smooth traffic flow.

Rajput 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 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 emphasised enforcement of laws related to vehicle fitness, axle load limits, and regulated movement of heavy traffic during night hours.

Kati Vice President Muhammad Talha Ali also spoke.

Published in Dawn, June 17th, 2026