Saturday, June 7, 2025

Complete ban on four-seater rickshaws imposed in Karachi

In a major effort to enhance road safety and traffic discipline, the Sindh government has officially banned four-seater rickshaws in Karachi and introduced strict penalties for serious violations like one-wheeling and driving against traffic flow.

The decision was finalised during a meeting chaired by Sindh Interior and Law Minister Zia Lanjhar, which was attended by top officials, including the IG Sindh, Secretary Law, and Secretary Transport. The session focused on reforming Karachi’s traffic regulations for better public safety.

As part of the new measures, vehicle fitness certification will now be handled by third-party agencies, and both commercial and private vehicles must meet these fitness standards. Rickshaws will also require special authorization to operate.

Zia Lanjhar highlighted that any private or government vehicle caught driving the wrong way could be fined up to Rs200,000, while motorcycles doing the same will face a penalty of Rs25,000.

Harsh punishments are also being introduced for one-wheeling and dangerous stunts like drifting. The fines will start at Rs100,000 for a first offence, doubling to Rs200,000 for a second violation, and rising to Rs300,000 for a third.

For cars violating one-way routes, a Rs100,000 fine will apply. Additionally, freight vehicles must now install at least five cameras to improve safety and tracking on the roads.