The Sindh government has relaxed the timing of the ban on heavy vehicle movement in Karachi, allowing dumper trucks and other heavy vehicles on the roads an hour earlier than before. Instead of 11:00 pm, these vehicles will now be permitted from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
The decision, which is being seen as a concession to powerful transporters’ associations, was made in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Sindh Information and Transport Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced the change, stating that it was taken to facilitate both transporters and the public.
“Traffic congestion is lower during these hours, which is why this adjustment has been made,” said Mr. Memon at a press conference.
Mandatory Fitness Certificates for Heavy Vehicles
The government has also made it compulsory for all heavy vehicles to obtain fitness certificates within 30 days. Vehicles without a valid certificate will be confiscated, and certificates from Punjab, Balochistan, or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will not be recognized in Sindh.
The transport department will ensure proper inspections for trailers, tankers, buses, and dumpers before granting them clearance to operate.
Strict Rules for Water Tankers
To regulate the water tanker mafia, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) has introduced a barcode system for tankers operating from official hydrants. Tankers without a barcode will be seized.
Additionally, individuals in the water transportation business must register their vehicles, and no unregistered water tanker will be allowed to operate in the city.
New Rules for Vehicle Registration and Showrooms
- Showrooms are now prohibited from selling unregistered vehicles.
- Vehicles must be registered before leaving the showroom; otherwise, the showroom will be sealed.
- Imported vehicles arriving at Karachi’s port will be transported only through car carriers to their respective destinations.
Crackdown on Illegal Activities
The Sindh government has also announced several strict measures to curb illegal practices:
- Ban on Display of Weapons: Only uniformed police officers can carry firearms in public. Any private or government security personnel in plain clothes caught displaying weapons will face legal action.
- Police Lights & Sirens: All vehicles using unauthorized police lights, sirens, or fake number plates will be confiscated. Vendors have two days to stop selling these items.
- Fake Number Plates & Underage Driving: Anyone caught with a fake number plate or driving without a valid licence will be arrested immediately. Parents will be held responsible if minors are caught driving.
Starting Monday, the Sindh government will strictly enforce these regulations to improve traffic discipline and law enforcement in Karachi.
