PMA raises alarm over rising road fatalities in Karachi, calls for urgent action

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has expressed deep distress over the alarming rise in fatal road accidents in Karachi, holding reckless driving, wrong-way movement, and corruption in traffic management responsible for the crisis.

The latest series of tragedies include:

• A water tanker in Malir killed a young couple and their newborn.
• A speeding car near Karsaz ran over and killed another couple.
• A water tanker in Naya Nazimabad claimed the life of a young motorcyclist.

Disturbing Statistics on Road Deaths

According to recent reports, 207 people have died in road accidents across Karachi in 2025:

• 185 men, 11 women, 2 young girls, and 9 children lost their lives.
• Over 900 people were injured, including more than 100 women.

The PMA attributes these tragic incidents to widespread violations of traffic laws, including reckless driving, wrong-way driving, daylight operation of heavy dumpers, and dangerous stunts like one-wheeling.

PMA Blames Systemic Corruption and Traffic Mismanagement

The PMA holds traffic authorities responsible for their failure to enforce laws, alleging that much of the revenue collected from fines is acquired through bribery and corrupt practices.

"Karachi’s roads have become death traps due to blatant violations of traffic laws, lack of enforcement, and alleged corruption within the traffic police," the PMA stated, urging immediate reforms to prevent further loss of life.

PMA’s Urgent Demands for Road Safety Reform

To curb this crisis, the PMA calls for the following urgent actions:

✅ Zero tolerance enforcement: Strict penalties for reckless driving, wrong-way driving, and heavy vehicle operations during peak hours.
✅ Crackdown on one-wheeling: Confiscation of vehicles engaged in life-threatening stunts.
✅ Reforming traffic management: Eliminating corruption and implementing effective road safety strategies.
✅ Investigation into traffic police corruption: A transparent probe into bribery allegations with swift disciplinary action.
✅ Public awareness campaigns: Educating citizens on the dangers of traffic violations and promoting responsible driving.
✅ Road infrastructure improvements: Ensuring well-maintained roads, proper signage, and functional traffic signals.
✅ Strict accountability for traffic officers: Holding police officers responsible for negligence and misconduct.

The PMA has urged authorities to take immediate and concrete measures to protect Karachi’s citizens from avoidable road fatalities. The association remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure effective traffic law enforcement and safer roads for all.