Pakistan is working on a plan to ban vehicles older than 20 years from using the Motorways. This plan came in response to the alarming number of road accidents on daily basis, the Federal Minister for Communications, Abdul Aleem Khan. The Minister announced a plan to ban older than 20 years from using Pakistan’s motorways.
The Federal Minister paid a visit to the National Highways and Motorway Police Headquarters, where he conducted a detailed review of the current operational systems of the Highways and Motorways. He showed Deep concern about the increasing dangers on the country’s motorways, he emphasized the urgent need for practical measures to protect human lives.
Following the visit, the Minister instructed the Inspector General of Motorway Police to develop a thorough and results-oriented road safety strategy. He underlined that the upcoming measures must be treated as essential policies to safeguard every road user.
As part of this nationwide road safety push, mandatory training for all commercial drivers will be introduced. The aim is to educate drivers on essential traffic laws, safe driving practices, and proper vehicle handling skills critical to reducing accident rates.
In addition, the Minister gave a three-month deadline for all commercial vehicles to obtain a vehicle fitness certificates, ensuring they meet the required technical and safety standards for motorway use.
The number of road accidents are already at an alarming level as the there is no official fitness check for the vehicles on the roads.
A key issue raised during the visit was the danger of using old, unfit vehicles on Pakistan’s roads. Many of these outdated vehicles lack fundamental safety features. Most of the vehicle lack basic features as seat belts, airbags and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Such features that are crucial for driver and passenger safety, especially at high speeds on the Motorways all over the country. Their absence significantly increases the likelihood of fatal accidents.
The continued use of such vehicles poses serious risks not only to their occupants but to all motorists. By enforcing stricter fitness requirements and phasing out unsafe vehicles, the government intends to promote a culture of responsibility and vehicle maintenance.