Farmane-Ilahi

KARACHI (92 News) The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has announced a proposed fine of Rs15,000 for motorists caught driving against the flow of traffic on major city roads, in a bid to enhance road safety and address the city’s worsening traffic conditions.

The move comes on the directives of Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab and the Karachi Task Force. The resolution will be presented at the next City Council meeting for approval, after which the fines will be enforced by city wardens.

Mayor Wahab stressed the need for strict action to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow. “Driving in the wrong direction puts lives at risk. This measure is essential for public safety,” he said.

However, the proposal has drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Advocate Saifuddin of Jamaat-e-Islami voiced concerns over empowering city wardens to issue fines, claiming they lack the legal authority to do so. “Their role should be to assist traffic police, not to penalise citizens directly,” he stated.

Traffic accidents in Karachi remain alarmingly high, with over 130 fatalities and 1,500 injuries reported in the first quarter of 2025, many involving motorcyclists.

While police officials welcome the support of wardens in easing congestion, the legal authority to impose fines remains a matter of debate as city officials prepare to table the resolution.